How pulse modes affect proton-barriers and anion-exchange membrane mineral fouling during consecutive electrodialysis treatments

► dc current leads to steady proton generation that cancels AEM mineral fouling. ► Repetitive current pulsation removes AEM fouling imparting cleaning-in-place effect. ► Brucite layers are formed on the AEM-diluate side when applying long pause lapses. ► Brucite layers lead to violent water splitting creating amorphous magnesium hydroxide. ► Violent water splitting exalts current and fouls the AEM-concentrate side.