Understanding advanced membranes for clean energy: COFs and GO approaches in osmotic power generation

The development of advanced membranes is crucial to addressing global energy and sustainability challenges. Osmotic energy harvesting (OEH), which utilizes salinity gradients, provides a clean and renewable energy solution. COFs provide ordered channels for selective ion transport and water control, while GO's high surface area and oxygen groups improve ion mobility and surface charge. This review examines the distinctive structural and functional properties of COFs and GO, including their high surface area, tunable porosity, and exceptional ion selectivity, which collectively enhance energy conversion efficiency. This review examines and discusses key advancements in synthesis techniques, surface modifications, and hybrid membrane systems, highlighting their contributions to enhanced power density, scalability, and mechanical stability. Additionally, we address critical challenges in large-scale deployment, including membrane degradation and fouling, and propose innovative strategies to mitigate these limitations. By bridging the gap between material science and renewable energy technologies, this review not only highlights the potential of COFs and GO-based membranes for osmotic energy harvesting but also outlines a roadmap for their broader application in sustainable energy solutions. • Advanced membranes are crucial in osmotic energy harvesting (OEH). • Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) and graphene oxide (GO) stand out as innovative candidates for OEH applications. • COFs and GO provide high ion selectivity, large surface area, and tunable porosity, boosting energy conversion. • Overcoming fouling and degradation needs a roadmap to scale osmotic membranes for sustainable energy use.