Network completeness enables angstrom-scale transport pathways in polymer membranes

Nature Communications, Published online: 02 June 2026; doi:10.1038/s41467-026-73860-0 It is challenging to balance molecular selectivity without compromising mechanical properties. Here, the authors introduce network completeness as a key descriptor to guide the design of subnanometer diffusion channels in hyper-crosslinked polymer membranes. By linking bridge connectivity to separation performance, the authors present an optimized balance of molecular selectivity and mechanical robustness.