A collection of Resources, News and Technologies from the Water and Wastewater Treatment Industry

Bipolar Membrane Electrodialysis (EDBM) is an advanced membrane separation technology that utilizes an electric field to split water molecules into H⁺ and OH⁻ ions, enabling the conversion of salt solutions into their corresponding acids and bases.

Water scarcity affects over 2 billion people worldwide, posing a significant threat to agriculture, health, and industry. We may have technological remedies like desalination and wastewater recycling, but they require breakthroughs to truly scale sustainably. Enter electrodialysis (ED)—a powerful separation method—and, at its core, the cutting-edge advanced membranes that enhance selectivity, durability, and efficiency.

Electrodialysis (ED) is a membrane separation process that uses electrical potential to drive the movement of ions through ion-exchange membranes. It's widely used in desalination, industrial wastewater treatment, and food processing. Unlike traditional filtration, ED is energy-efficient and highly selective in removing charged particles.

Over time, a solid layer of fouling—comprising process materials, low-solubility salts, and macromolecular organics—can form on the inner walls of heat exchanger tubes. When this happens, even high-velocity flow inside the tubes becomes insufficient to remove the buildup. This scaling significantly reduces heat transfer efficiency and evaporation capacity. If left untreated, it can lead to decreased evaporation rates and increased pump load on the circulation system.

Electrodialysis (ED) is a game-changer when it comes to separating ions from water using an electric field and ion-exchange membranes. Whether it’s purifying drinking water or recycling industrial effluents, this technology is the backbone of modern water treatment. But here’s the catch — membrane durability can make or break the process.

The pore size of a membrane determines what can and can't pass through. In electrodialysis, this impacts everything from energy efficiency to how well the system removes specific ions. Too big, and unwanted molecules sneak through. Too small, and you may block beneficial ions or reduce flow altogether.