Bionic thermosensation inspired temperature gradient sensor based on covalent organic framework nanofluidic membrane with ultrahigh sensitivity

Abstract

The ability to precisely monitor temperature at a high resolution is an important task, particularly in terms of safety. Inspired by natural thermosensitive transient receptor potential cation channels, we developed a temperature sensor based on thermaldriven ionic charge separation. To mimic the function of nature, an ionic covalent organic frameworkbased nanofluidic membrane was fabricated. By engineering the membrane to separate two electrolyte solutions, the temperature difference across the membrane can synchronously induce a potential. The high charge density and narrow channel size render extraordinary permselectivity to the membrane, thus offering a thermosensation selectivity of up to 1.25 mV K-1, superior to that of any known natural system. Additionally, the generated potential is linearly related to the introduced temperature gradient, thus allowing for precise detection. With these attributes, an alarm device with high thermosensation sensitivity was constructed, demonstrating great promise for environmental temperature monitoring.