Self-Powered Linear Pressure Sensor Based on MXene/CNT Nanofluid Membrane

Ion channels, which own efficient, accurate, and selective ion transport ability, play a key role in maintaining cell homeostasis, participating in signal transduction, and other physiological processes in organisms. However, the inherent complexity and uncontrollability of ion channels in nature restrict their direct use in technical applications. In order to address the application requirements of specific fields, nanochannels have been designed to simulate and optimize the functional characteristics of biological ion channels. Herein, two-dimensional (2D) nanochannels based on MXene/carbon nanotube (CNT) composite membrane are constructed, with their ion transport mechanisms analyzed using molecular dynamics simulations. In addition, the ion transport characteristics in nanochannels under the influence of external environment of pressure are further explored and the current density can reach up to 315 nA cm-2. Based on the ion selectivity of nanochannels in MXene/CNT composite membrane, a self-powered linear pressure sensor is designed, which shows an ultrafast response (51.3 ms) and recovery time (60.2 ms), respectively. Thus, the sensor is capable of monitoring a range of human activities ranging from subtle deformations to vigorous body movements. Furthermore, the sensor can readily differentiate a range of sounds through air vibration and exhibit enormous potential in sound visualization technology.