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Updated: May 14, 2026
07:55
Ion-Exchange Membranes for the Fabrication of Reverse Electrodialysis Device
Published on: July 20, 2021
A microbial fuel cell driven capacitive deionization technology for removal of low level dissolved ions
Cuijie Feng1, Chia-Hung Hou, Shaohua Chen
1Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen, China.
Chemosphere
|February 5, 2013
Summary
Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) coupled with capacitive deionization (CDI) offer a novel approach to wastewater treatment. This integrated MFC-CDI system efficiently removes electrolytes while generating electricity from wastewater.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Electrochemistry
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) generate electricity from wastewater but have low energy output.
- Capacitive deionization (CDI) removes ions using low external power, making it suitable for integration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the feasibility of MFC-driven CDI (MFC-CDI) for integrated wastewater treatment, deionization, and electricity production.
- To optimize MFC configuration for efficient CDI operation.
Main Methods:
- Continuous flow MFCs were configured in single, series, and parallel arrangements.
- The generated voltage from MFCs was used to drive the CDI process.
- Electrolyte conductivity removal and electrosorption capacities were measured.
Main Results:
- Parallel connection of two MFCs yielded the highest potential (0.63V) for CDI.
- Over 60% conductivity removal of NaCl solution was achieved.
- Electrosorption capacities ranged from 150 to 346 μg g⁻¹ across different concentrations.
Conclusions:
- MFC-CDI technology effectively integrates wastewater treatment with energy recovery.
- This energy-saving approach shows promise for removing low levels of dissolved ions in water and wastewater treatment.
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