Removal of Cu2+ ions by a micro-flow electrodeionization (EDI) system

Removal tests for Cu2+ ions were performed using a micro-flow electrodeionization system containing a central compartment filled with Purolite C150 PLH cation exchange resins. The cathode and anode compartments of the cell were separated from the central compartment with the Neosepta AMX anion exchange and CMX cation exchange membranes. The transport of Cu2+ ions to the cathode compartment was enhanced with an increase in the initial concentration of Cu2+ ions in the feed solution. After EDI separation, the Cu2+ concentration coming from the central stream decreased to 0.49 mg/L when the initial concentration of Cu2+ ions was 5.0 mg/L and to 1.7 mg/L when the Cu2+ concentration in the feed solution was 25.0 mg/L. Also, the concentration of Cu2+ ions in the cathode compartment increased with the increasing concentration of H2SO4 circulated through electrode compartments. The Cu2+ concentration in the cathode compartment increased from 0. 49 to 2.15 mg/L when the H2SO4 concentration was increased from 0.01 M to 0.1 M.

Research highlights
► Removal of Cu(II) ions was performed by a micro-flow EDI system.
► Some experimental parameters influenced the separation performance of Cu(II) ions.
► Current efficiency was influenced by experimental parameters.