Capacitive Deionization Electrode Stacks Series Connection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The existing ion removal apparatus using capacitive deionization faces challenges with low charging voltages leading to high electrical currents, resulting in energy loss or the need for expensive metal connectors and power supplies.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus connects multiple capacitive electrode stacks in series, allowing for higher voltages while keeping electrical currents low by dividing the applied voltage equally across the stacks, using carbon-based current collectors and non-metal connectors to reduce energy loss and costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If low charging voltages are used in capacitive deionisation, then ion removal function is maintained, but high electrical currents occur leading to increased energy loss
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus divides the electrode assembly into multiple electrode stacks connected in series. Each stack operates at a lower voltage (0.5-2V) maintaining effective ion removal, while the series connection allows the overall system to operate at higher voltage (multiple volts) which reduces the total current drawn from the power supply, thereby reducing energy loss.
2Ease of manufacture
If low charging voltages are used in capacitive deionisation, then ion removal function is maintained, but thick expensive metal connectors and power supplies are required to handle high currents
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the electrode assembly into multiple stacks connected in series, the system reduces the current requirement. This enables the use of thinner, less expensive carbon-based current collectors and non-metal connectors instead of thick metal connectors, significantly reducing material costs and simplifying manufacturing.
3Loss of energy
If multiple electrode stacks are connected in series, then higher voltages can be applied to reduce electrical currents, but the complexity of electrical connections increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode assembly is segmented into discrete stacks that can be independently assembled and then connected in series. This modular approach simplifies the electrical connection complexity compared to a single large assembly, as each stack has standardized connection points that can be systematically linked.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple electrode stacks are merged into a single functional unit through series electrical connection. The individual stacks maintain their structural independence while their electrical circuits are combined, allowing the system to benefit from both the simplicity of individual stack design and the energy efficiency of series operation.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This configuration enhances energy efficiency, reduces the need for thick, expensive cables, and allows the use of cheaper power sources, effectively addressing the issue of high energy loss and cost associated with high currents at low voltages.
Implementation Method 1
A method for water purification is by capacitive deionisation, using an apparatus provided with a flow through capacitor (FTC) to remove ions in water. The FTC functions as an electrically regenerable cell for capacitive deionisation. By charging electrodes, ions are removed from an electrolyte and are held in electric double layers at the electrodes.
Implementation Method 2
the plurality of second current collectors of a first of the plurality of capacitive electrode stacks are electrically connected to the plurality of first current collectors of a second of the plurality of capacitive electrode stacks. By connecting the plurality of second current collectors of a first of the plurality of capacitive electrode stacks electrically to the plurality of first current collectors of a second of the plurality of capacitive electrode stacks, the electrical currents in the current collectors of a first of the plurality of capacitive electrode stacks may be substantially the same as the electrical currents in the current collectors of a second of the plurality of capacitive electrode stacks, whereas the applied voltages will be divided over the plurality of current collectors of the first and second of the plurality of capacitive electrode stacks.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus to remove ions including a plurality of capacitive electrode stacks. Each capacitive electrode stack may have: a plurality of first electrodes including a plurality of first current collectors; a plurality of second electrodes including a plurality of second current collectors; and a spacer between the first and second electrodes to allow water to flow in between the electrodes. The second current collectors of a first of the plurality of capacitive electrode stacks may be connected to the first current collectors of a second of the plurality of capacitive electrode stacks.