Electrochemical H/D isotope separation

Abstract

Deuterium is widely utilized in scientific research, nuclear energy, and the pharmaceutical industry. However, the extremely similar physical and chemical properties of hydrogen isotopes, combined with the low abundance of deuterium, lead to high capital costs for current separation methods, low separation factors, and significant energy consumption. The rising demand for hydrogen energy, advancements in material technology, interdisciplinary collaboration, and increasing market demand have spurred the vigorous development of electrochemical technologies to separate protium and deuterium (H/D). In this review, we present a timely and comprehensive critical review of the principles, historical development, and recent progress of three primary systems for electrochemical H/D separation. A multidimensional discussion will focus on key materials, engineering parameters, external conditions, separation performance, system energy consumption, and other relevant aspects necessary for the theoretical and practical application of these separation systems. Additionally, we will propose prospects for electrochemical H/D separation techniques.