Temperature and desorption mode matter in capacitive deionization process for water desalination

Literature reporting temperature and desorption mode as factors of capacitive deionization (CDI) process for water desalination is rare. This study explored the impacts of four water temperatures (15°C, 25°C, 35°C, and 45°C), three salt concentrations (350, 1260, and 3100 mg/L), and three desorption modes (potential removal, short circuit, and polarity reversal) on performance of a 'closed-loop' CDI system. Results showed that a higher temperature promoted adsorption and desorption rates but impaired adsorption capacity. Polarity reversal could greatly expedite the desorption process compared to short circuit and potential removal. A promotional impact of concentration on CDI desalination could be explained by the formation of electrical double layers. The research also noted the earlier occurrence of re-adsorption at higher temperatures during polarity-reversal desorption. Strategies of increasing water temperature on short adsorption cycles and using an adjustable combination mode of polarity reversal and short circuit for desorption are implied for improving desalination efficiency and water recovery of CDI systems.