Electrodialysis as a key operating unit in chemical processes: From lab to pilot scale of latest breakthroughs

This review article comprehensively explores the significant advancements in electrodialysis (ED) technology within the field of chemical engineering, presenting a holistic overview that spans fundamental principles, membrane materials and fabrication techniques, operational parameters, and a wide array of applications. Unlike previous studies that often narrow their focus to specific aspects of ED, this work synthesizes global advances, bridging gaps between diverse research themes to offer a coherent understanding of current trends and future directions. ED, a membrane-based separation process driven by electric potential, is pivotal for its applications in water purification, desalination, resource recovery, and beyond. This review delves into the evolution of ion-exchange membranes, highlighting innovations in materials, alongside advances in fabrication techniques that enhance membrane selectivity and efficiency. It also scrutinizes the impact of operational parameters on the performance of ED systems, addressing challenges like ion leakage, membrane fouling, and the balance between selectivity and conductivity. Process intensification and system optimization strategies are discussed, revealing how recent developments contribute to energy efficiency, scalability, and sustainability. The review further extends to emerging applications of ED in sectors ranging from environmental management to energy and hydrometallurgy industries, underscored by case studies that demonstrate practical implementations. Conclusively, this article underlines the multidisciplinary approach required for the advancement of ED technologies, suggesting avenues for future research that prioritize environmental impact, economic feasibility, and technological innovation. Through this global perspective, it aims to catalyze further exploration and application of ED in addressing some of the most pressing challenges.