Interfacial synthesis: a scalable fabrication method of two-dimensional membranes

Abstract

As two-dimensional (2D) materials have been gathering interest owing to their characteristic properties, diverse methods to synthesize 2D materials have been studied. However, when it comes to the fabrication of 2D membranes, there are still critical challenges related to the scalability and homogeneity of the membranes. To overcome these issues, support-mediated interfacial synthesis has been suggested as a scalable fabrication method. Among diverse interfaces between different phases or substances, the method utilizing the liquid/liquid interface where the sharp interface is formed between two immiscible solvents will be explored. In this review, 2D covalent-organic framework and 2D metal-organic framework membranes fabricated at the liquid/liquid interfaces via support-mediated interfacial synthesis will be discussed. Finally, perspectives of this method on the aspect of scale-up will be investigated.