Design of Carbon Materials with Selective Ion Separation in Capacitive Deionisation and Their Applications

Capacitive deionization (CDI) is a novel, cost-effective and environmentally friendly desalination technology that has garnered significant attention in recent years. Carbon materials, owing to their excellent properties, have become the preferred electrode materials for CDI. Given the significant differences between different ions, ion-selective performance has emerged as a critical aspect of CDI applications. However, comprehensive reviews on the selective ion separation capabilities of carbon materials for CDI remain scarce. This review examines the progress in developing carbon materials for ion-selective separation in CDI, focusing on regulatory mechanisms and representative materials. It also discusses the applications of selective CDI carbon materials in areas such as heavy metal removal, nutrient recovery, seawater desalination resourcing, and water softening. Furthermore, the challenges and future prospects for advancing carbon materials in CDI are explored. This review aims to provide theoretical insights and practical guidance for utilising carbon materials in wastewater treatment and resource recovery.