This electrochemical technique uses a redox flow desalination (RFD) principle that not only turns seawater into drinkable water but also serves as an energy-efficient storage solution for renewable energy.
Incoming seawater is divided into salinating and desalinating streams through a complex network of channels. These channels, separated by exchange membranes, facilitate electrochemical reactions, resulting in the extraction of Na+ ions and freshwater generation.
Drinkable water is produced from the incoming seawater by operating the system in a single pass or batch mode.
In a reverse operation, where brine and freshwater are re-mixed, the stored chemical energy can be converted into renewable electricity, essentially acting as a unique form of “battery.”
While further research is needed, the findings from the NYU Tandon research team working on cracking the RFD code signal a promising avenue towards a more cost-effective process, a crucial advancement in the global quest for increased potable water.