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Open Access | Published on October 5, 2025

Design and Evaluation of a Scalable Shock Wave Electrodialysis with Multi-Cell Stack for Efficient Desalination

Lin Yu-I
Yupo LIN J
Po-Chih TSENG
Shu-Yuan PAN
Abstract

Shock Wave Electrodialysis (SWED) is an innovative separation technology that integrates microfluidic principles into electrodialysis stacks, pioneered by MIT’s Bazant Research Group. By operating under over-limiting current conditions, SWED enhances ion separation through the formation of shock waves in charged porous media. While previous studies have focused on small, single-cell devices, scaling SWED for industrial use requires the development of multi-cell stacks. In this study, we present the first scalable SWED device with multiple cell pairs, designed for desalination. The system features an active membrane area of 4000 mm² and a flow rate of 2.5 mL/min—offering over ten times the capacity of earlier models. Experimental results show continuous salt rejection exceeding 90%. Energy consumption is about 46 kWh/m³ depending on operating conditions and stack design. We also explore strategies to optimize the trade-off between separation efficiency and energy use, based on data from performance, water recovery, and energy metrics. This work represents a significant step toward realizing SWED as a practical, energy-efficient solution for large-scale water treatment and resource recovery.

Keywords
Electrokinetics, Desalination, Ion separation, Limiting current, Ion concentration polarization,