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CBE Seminar: “Electrochemical Ion Pumping: Concept, Theory, and Application” (Shihong Lin, Vanderbilt University)
October 15, 2025 at 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM
Abstract:
Advancements in electrochemical separation have paved the way for innovative approaches to address critical challenges in water treatment and resource recovery. In this seminar, I will introduce the Electrochemical Ion Pumping (EIP) platform, a transformative new approach to electrochemical separation that addresses the inherent limitations of conventional capacitive deionization and electrosorption. EIP leverages circuit-switching-induced ion shuttling to achieve unidirectional ion flux without solution switching, enabling enhanced desalination efficiency and scalability. I will also discuss the development of a theoretical model for dynamic ion transport in EIP systems, which provides critical insights into the unique behavior of ion shuttling mechanisms and informs the design and optimization of EIP for desalination. Finally, I will present a novel application of the EIP platform for simultaneous desalination and selective metal recovery from industrial wastewater. By precisely regulating electrode potential and switching frequency, the system enables targeted redox reactions for efficient metal recovery while performing desalination.
Shihong Lin
Professor, Chancellor Faculty Fellow
Dr. Shihong Lin is a Professor and the Chancellor Faculty Fellow in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering and the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering at Vanderbilt University. The mission of his research group is to advance water separation processes for addressing critical sustainability challenges. The three current research areas in his group include (1) desalination and water treatment, (2) resource extraction and recovery, and (3) brine management. Dr. Lin has received multiple recognitions for his scholarly achievements, with notable awards including the Walter L. Huber Research Prize (2023) from American Society of Civil Engineers and the Paul L. Busch Award from Water Research Foundation (2020). Dr. Lin is currently an Associate Editor of Environmental Science & Technology—the flagship journal in environmental engineering and science.