(748a) Reverse Electrodialysis Revisited

More than three decades ago, John Weinstein and the author published a paper in Science magazine on Electric Power from Differences in Salinity.  This paper provided design equations, experimental data and cost estimates for a process that constitutes a reversal of the process of electrodialysis: using differences in salinity to produce electric power.  In the present climate of concern about CO₂ generation, this process deserves to be reconsidered.  Using apparatus designed for water desalination, a cost of 0.97 cents per kilowatt-hour was developed.  With modern manufacturing technology and apparatus designed specifically for this application, this could be improved upon.  A number of lessons can be drawn from this experience, not the least of which is that virtually every “new” idea actually has a long history.