Electrodialysis Device with Ion Flow Control Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrodialysis systems suffer from inefficient ion separation, ion backflow, and energy loss due to gas formation on electrodes, necessitating improvements for long-term use.
Innovation Solution
A device for electrodialysis utilizing alternating current (AC) mode with ion flow controlling elements comprising ion-exchange membranes and substrates, allowing controlled ion flow and preventing net charge buildup at electrodes, enabling efficient separation of specific ions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional electrodialysis systems are used, then ion separation can be achieved, but ion backflow and energy loss occur due to gas formation on electrodes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by using alternating current (AC) voltage instead of direct current (DC). The voltage polarity is periodically reversed, causing ions to oscillate between electrodes and preventing continuous gas formation at any single electrode. This periodic reversal eliminates the harmful gas buildup that causes energy loss in conventional DC systems, while maintaining effective ion separation through the alternating electric field.
2Reliability
If conventional electrodialysis systems are used, then ion separation can be achieved, but net charge builds up at electrodes
Solution Approach 1:
The alternating current voltage continuously reverses polarity, preventing net charge accumulation at electrodes. As the voltage switches direction, any charge that accumulated during one half-cycle is immediately reversed and discharged during the next half-cycle. This periodic action maintains electrical neutrality at the electrodes throughout operation, eliminating the harmful charge buildup that would otherwise occur in DC systems.
3Reliability
If ion flow controlling elements are added to prevent ion backflow, then ion separation improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the ion flow controlling elements directly with the electrodes, integrating multiple functions into unified components. The ion flow controlling elements are positioned to work in conjunction with the alternating current electrodes, combining the electrode's electrical function with the ion control function. This integration prevents ion backflow and improves separation efficiency while avoiding the need for separate, independent control components that would increase overall device complexity.
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
The device effectively separates ions into dilute and enriched streams, reduces ion backflow, and minimizes energy loss, suitable for applications like artificial kidneys and desalination.
Implementation Method 1
Electrodialysis is a method to separate electrolyte ions from a solution using ion-exchange membranes
Implementation Method 2
The combination of electric field and a cationic membrane transports cations to one side, and anions to another side through an anionic membrane
Implementation Method 3
the first and second electrode are electrically connected for applying an alternating current voltage across the first and second electrode
Data Source
AI summary
According to an aspect of the present inventive concept there is provided a device for electrodialysis, comprising: a channel configured for receiving a flow of an electrolyte; a first electrode and a second electrode, wherein the first and second electrode are electrically connected for applying an alternating current voltage; a first ion flow controlling element being configured to allow flow of ions from a second side to a first side, the first ion flow controlling element comprising a first substrate and a first ion-exchange membrane, wherein the first substrate comprises pores; a second ion flow controlling element being configured to allow flow of ions from a second side to the a side, the second ion flow controlling element comprising a second substrate and a second ion-exchange membrane, wherein the second substrate comprises pores.