These HBs form either between functional groups on a single GO layer or as bridges between the confining layers. In the present models the number of the H 2 O molecules exceeds the number of available HBs sites on the GO layers. Therefore, a network of inter-molecular HBs between the H 2 O molecules is formed. At the same time this network connects to the bridges formed between the GO layers. This provides a 'liberating force' on the trapped H 2 O molecules. The competition between the liberating forces and the trapping ones causes the aforementioned dynamic nature of the H-bonded bridges. As a net effect water diffusion in between the confining GO layers is slowed down.