Heterostructured MoS2 quantum dot/GO lamellar membrane with improved transport efficiency for organic solvents inspired by the Namib Desert beetle

Graphene oxide lamellar 2D membranes are widely researched for ion separation and molecular sieving in aqueous solution. Extension of the research of GO-based membranes for organic solvent nanofiltration has drawn much attention but is still in its infancy. The relatively low solvent permeability remains a difficult problem to overcome. Inspired by the shell of the Namib Desert beetle, a heterostructured lamellar membrane was prepared by incorporating MoS 2 quantum dots (MQDs) into the graphene oxide membrane. A dual-functional zone was formed, where hydrophilic areas exhibited excellent absorption performance for polar solvents and hydrophobic regions were propitious to the discharge of polar solvents when incorporating a moderate amount (10%) MQDs, denoted as GM-10 (nonpolar solvents presented the opposite performance). The synergistic effects of the dual-functional zone successfully improved the transport efficiency for various solvents, and the flux of various solvents for GM-10 was over three times higher than that of the pure GO membrane. Simultaneously, the composite biomimetic membrane showed excellent stability. This paper provides a novel strategy for constructing a heterostructured dual-functional zone for 2D lamellar membrane modification without the sacrifice of rejection, revealing the potential for further optimization of separation performance and membrane stability. • The biomimetic membrane was prepared by adding MoS 2 quantum dots into graphene oxide membrane. • Heterostructured dual-functional zone was formed, enhancing the transport efficiency. • The membrane showed excellent balanced separation performance for various dye organic solvents. • The membrane showed high stability in harsh condition and long-term operation.