Article

A research team from UC Irvine and Tel Aviv University has developed a ratchet-based ion pump that allows charged molecules to pass using a low-voltage signal, without moving parts or chemical reactions. This innovation could enhance water desalination, lithium ion extraction from seawater, and heavy-metal removal from drinking water.

The pump operates by modulating voltage across ultrathin metallic layers on a nanoporous insulating membrane, generating a directed ionic flow through a ratchet effect. Demonstrated applications include an electrically driven deionization system achieving 50% salt removal with minimal voltage. The technology could transform water purification and contribute to environmental sustainability.