Getting ions back! Due to the high selectivity and reversibility of the conversion reaction, it is possible to selectively remove and recover ions from the solution. This Concept highlights the great advantages and state-of-the-art efforts of the conversion reaction for selective removal and recovery of ions and puts forward further improvement.

Abstract

Capacitive deionization (CDI) is a green and pollution-free emerging technology that can be used for ions removal and recovery from water. However, the traditional electro-adsorption process to achieve ions removal faces the challenges of non-selectivity, low efficiency and difficult ion recovery. In recent years, the conversion reaction has attracted wide attention due to its high selectivity, reversibility and excellent desalination ability for ions removal and recovery. This concept article will focus on the connotation and representative applications of conversion reactions that can be used for ion-selective removal and recovery and put forward the perspectives and outlooks of conversion reactions.