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A conductor needs to be a component of a path that creates a closed loop or full circuit to have a continuous current flowing through it. A current starts to flow if an electric field is created inside an isolated conductor that is not part of a full circuit. The conductor quickly develops a net positive charge at one end and a net negative charge at the other. These charges generate an electric field opposite the direction of the applied electric field, which reduces the current. Eventually,...

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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jul 12, 2026

Ion-Exchange Membranes for the Fabrication of Reverse Electrodialysis Device

Ion-Exchange Membranes for the Fabrication of Reverse Electrodialysis Device

Published on: July 20, 2021

Electric power from differences in salinity: the dialytic battery.

J N Weinstein, F B Leitz

Science (New York, N.Y.)

|February 13, 1976

Summary

Generating electricity from mixing river and sea water is possible using ion exchange membranes. Further technological advancements are needed to make this renewable energy source economically competitive.

Area of Science:

Electrochemistry
Materials Science
Environmental Engineering

Background:

Freshwater and saltwater mixing represents a significant untapped source of renewable energy.
Ion exchange membranes are key components in electrochemical systems for energy generation.

Purpose of the Study:

To investigate the potential of using alternating anion and cation exchange membranes for power generation from salinity gradient energy.
To develop and utilize a mathematical model for optimizing the dialytic battery process.

Main Methods:

Employing an array of alternating anion and cation exchange membranes.
Utilizing a simple mathematical model to predict and analyze experimental outcomes.
Exploring various conditions to optimize the energy generation process.

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Self-standing Electrochemical Set-up to Enrich Anode-respiring Bacteria On-site

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Main Results:

Demonstrated the feasibility of generating electric power from the free energy of mixing river and sea waters.
The mathematical model accurately predicted experimental results, aiding in process optimization.
Identified significant technological improvements required for economic viability.

Conclusions:

The dialytic battery concept is a viable method for renewable energy generation.
Optimization through mathematical modeling is crucial for enhancing efficiency.
Current technology requires substantial advancement to compete with existing energy prices.