가천대학교 에너지환경재료 연구실

Research

Electrochemically-Mediated Water Purification & Power Generation

Flow-Electrode Capacitive Mixing (F-CapMix)
and Flow-Electrode Capacitive Deionization (F-CDI)

To address the growing demand for decentralized and energy-efficient water purification and energy harvesting, our group explores innovative electrochemical systems based on flow-electrode technologies. We investigate flow-electrode capacitive deionization (F-CDI) and flow-electrode capacitive mixing (F-CapMix) as dual-function platforms for desalination and salinity gradient power generation, respectively. These systems utilize continuous-flow, carbon-based slurries to enable scalable ion removal and energy extraction without traditional ion-exchange electrodes or chemical regenerants. A central focus of our research lies in the rational design of novel materials to improve flowability, conductivity, and redox activity. We develop advanced hybrid carbon electrodes with hierarchical porosity and redox-active additives to enhance charge storage and ion transport. Additionally, we explore tailored redox couples capable of reversible interactions with both Na⁺ and Cl⁻ ions, aiming to overcome asymmetry limitations and maximize energy output in F-CapMix systems. By integrating electrochemical engineering, materials design, and system modeling, we aim to deliver multifunctional technologies for off-grid water-energy recovery. Our efforts support the realization of carbon-neutral, circular, and resilient infrastructures aligned with the global water–energy nexus challenges.