Layered Bio-Inorganic MXene Membranes: A Green Approach for Uranium Extraction from Seawater Using Genetically Modified <i>E. coli</i>.
basic_science · Level V
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- Record sourced from PubMed, PMID 39540791.
- Also identified by DOI 10.1021/acs.nanolett.4c04709.
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Abstract
With the growing demand for clean energy, efficient uranium extraction technologies are needed, especially from seawater, where uranium reserves are huge. Here, we developed a composite membrane by inserting <i>Escherichia coli</i> engineered with super uranyl-binding protein (SUP) within a two-dimensional (2D) MXene (Ti<sub>3</sub>C<sub>2</sub>T<sub><i>x</i></sub>) layer. SUP endowed the bioinorganic hybrid membrane with ultrahigh selectivity for uranyl ions, while the engineered <i>E. coli</i> improved the mechanical strength and economy of the membranes. Experimental results showed that the membranes achieved precise recognition of uranyl ions and excellent ion screening performance (SF<sub>U/V</sub> ≈ 43, SF<sub>Na/U</sub> ≈ 158). Excellent separation performance and cyclic stability tests demonstrated the industrial application potential of the membrane. This method offers a green and sustainable solution, combining biological engineering and nanomaterial innovation, providing an environmentally friendly and efficient approach for uranium extraction from seawater, marking a significant advancement in the field of clean energy resource development.
Medical subject headings
- Uranium
- Escherichia coli
- Seawater
- Membranes, Artificial