Activated Carbon Aerogel as an Electrode with High Specific Capacitance for Capacitive Deionization

In this study, carbon aerogels (CAs) were synthesized by the sol-gel method, using environmentally friendly glucose as a precursor, and then they further activated with potassium hydroxide (KOH) to obtain (ACAs). After activation, electrochemical performance of ACAs was significantly improved, specific capacitance increased from 19.70 F·g−1 111.89 F·g−1. Moreover, showed stronger hydrophilicity contact angle 118.54° compared CAs (69.31°). When used an electrode for capacitive deionization (CDI), had not only better diffuse electric double layer behavior, but also lower charge transfer resistance intrinsic resistance. Thus, ACA faster CDI desalination rate higher capacity. The unit adsorption capacity is three times larger than that CA electrode. experiment 100 mg·L−1 sodium chloride (NaCl) solution device based on electrode, optimal spacing 2 mm, voltage 1.4 V, flow 30 mL·min−1. NaCl concentration 500 mg·L−1, reached 26.12 mg·g−1, much which has been reported in many literatures. process followed Langmuir model, electro-sorption single process. addition, exhibited good regeneration cycle stability.