Electroosmosis in nanopores: Computational methods and technological applications

Abstract

Electroosmosis is a fascinating effect where liquid motion is induced by an applied electric field. Counter ions accumulate in the vicinity of charged surfaces, triggering a coupling between liquid mass transport and external electric field. In nanofluidic technologies, where surfaces play an exacerbated role, electroosmosis is thus of primary importance. Its consequences on the transport properties in biological and synthetic nanopores are subtle and intricate. Thorough understanding is therefore challenging yet crucial to fully assess the mechanisms at play. Here, we review recent progress on computational techniques for the analysis of electroosmosis and discuss technological applications, in particular for sensing devices.