Implementation of fungal-based desalination through capacitive deionization for urban water provision: a conceptual framework

Abstract

The increasing demand for clean water in urban areas calls for innovative and sustainable water treatment solutions. Capacitive deionization (CDI), using fungal-based materials for desalination, offers potential benefits such as sustainability, low cost, and scalability, for urban water provision. However, few studies have explored the practical application of fungal-based CDI technology. This research assesses the feasibility of implementing fungal-based CDI technology in urban water provision systems, drawing on the key study from Chen et al.’s 2022 research, examining the preparation and performance of fungal-based CDI electrodes derived from Aspergillus niger. To create a reliable and up-to-date conceptual model, additional literature from indexed journals, focusing on CDI in desalination facilities from the past decade, is also reviewed. A conceptual framework was developed to demonstrate the potential integration of fungal-based CDI technology into urban water treatment systems, and taking into account factors such as capital and operational costs, scalability, and sustainability. The outcome of this study is a conceptual model that promotes further development of urban water provision through desalination, broadening the perspective on the application of emerging biotechnology, using fungal-based materials for water provision.