Light-Driven Ion Transport in Nanofluidic Devices: Photochemical, Photoelectric, and Photothermal Effects

Abstract

Light-driven ion transport in nanofluidic devices is a phenomenon where ions move unidirectionally by consuming optical energy, either from low concentration to high concentration or vice versa. The light-driven unidirectional ion transport offers intriguing application potential in desalination and ion separation, osmosis energy harvesting, and ionic machines benefiting from the remote noncontact light stimulus. Here, we review recent progress in nanofluidic-based light-driven ion transport systems and emphasize similarities and differences in the three underlying working principles based on photochemical, photoelectric, and photothermal effects. The current challenges and future developments of light-driven ion transport in nanofluidic devices are discussed. We believed that this article encourages further innovation in this exciting and emerging research field.