Fast phase transition of water molecules in a defective carbon nanotube under an electric field

Abstract

We utilize molecular dynamics simulations to study the effect of an electric field on the permeation of water molecules through a defective single-walled carbon nanotube (DSWCNT). Compared with a perfect single-walled carbon nanotube (PSWCNT), the behaviors of water molecules respond more quickly under the same electric field in a DSWCNT. Wet–dry phase transition of water molecules occurs when the electric field reaches 0.32 V/nm, which is much lower than the case of the PSWCNT. Besides, the critical electric field is affected by the number of defects. These results pave a way for designing fast wet–dry transition devices and provide a new insight into water permeation through a defective nanochannel.