Integrated salinity reduction and water recovery in an osmotic microbial desalination cell

Abstract

The concept of a novel osmotic microbial desalination cell (OsMDC) was presented and experimentally demonstrated. The OsMDC reduced salinity better than forward osmosis because of the combined water flux and electricity generation, and it recovered more water than a conventional microbial desalination cell. The integrated functions of wastewater treatment, water desalination, and water recovery in an OsMDC will create environmental, energy, and economical benefits.