Moisture‐Responsive Ion‐Coupling Networks in Molecularly Engineered MoS ₂ Channels for Enhanced Ion Transport

Abstract

ABSTRACT Classical nanofluidic ion transport predominantly relies on fixed surface charges for selectivity. However, such static‐charge systems are fundamentally limited by an “immobilization effect”; the deep energy wells required for ion recruitment inevitably hinder subsequent release, stifling continuous transport kinetics. Herein, we report a paradigm‐shifting dynamic ion‐coupling mechanism mediated by surface‐anchored counter‐ions that establish transient, moisture‐responsive coordination with mobile species. By decorating angstrom‐scale 2D molybdenum disulfide (MoS 2 ) channels with single‐site Pb 2+ , we create a molecularly engineered interface that facilitates rapid ion hopping. This strategy flattens the migration energy landscape and decouples ion entry from release, circumventing the inherent trade‐off in traditional fixed‐charge membranes. Our biomimetic approach achieves an extraordinary 30‐fold enhancement in ionic current compared to pristine channels. Leveraging these dynamic interactions, we demonstrate a humidity‐driven energy generator delivering a record‐high power density of 532.8 µW cm − 2  at ∼75% RH, significantly surpassing state‐of‐the‐art technologies. These findings establish dynamic ion coupling as a powerful blueprint for advancing molecular iontronics, self‐powered sensing, and next‐generation energy conversion.