ZIF-8/Cellulose Nanocomposites: Scalable Electrode Materials for Solar Powered Capacitive Deionization Desalination

Abstract

Saline water poses a significant challenge specifically for agricultural irrigation. Solar-powered capacitive deionization (CDI) offers an energy-efficient solution for desalination. This study explores zeolite imidazolate framework/cellulose acetate (ZIF-8/CA) nanocomposite electrodes as a promising option for solar-powered CDI technology. This nanocomposite boasts several advantages, including high surface area, simple synthesis, and well-developed porosity, making it scalable and potentially commercially viable for desalination applications. Notably, the ZIF-8 component exhibits homogenous intergrowth onto the cellulose surface, forming a ten-layered structure. To evaluate their performance, electrochemical performance was assessed through cyclic voltammetry (CV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) within a CDI unit. The ZIF-8/CA nanocomposite demonstrates a high specific capacitance of approximately 156.20 F/g, suggesting its potential as a promising, scalable, and eco-friendly adsorbent for CDI, particularly well-suited for agricultural applications.