Theory of Membrane Phenomena in Ion Exchange Membranes

There are three basic concepts that explain membrane phenomena the Nemst-Planck flux equation, the theory of absolute reaction rate processes, and the principle of irreversible thermodynamics. Explanations based on the theory of absolute reaction rate processes provide similar equations to those of the Nemst-Planck flux equation. The Nemst-Planck flux equation is based on the hypothesis that cations and anions independently migrate in the solution and membrane matrix. However, interaction among different ions and solvent is considered in irreversible thermodynamics. Consequently, an explanation of membrane phenomena based on irreversible thermodynamics is thought to be more reasonable. Nonequilibrium thermodynamics in membrane systems is covered in excellent books1 and reviews,2 to which the reader is referred. The present book aims to explain not theory but practical aspects, such as preparation, modification and application, of ion exchange membranes. In this chapter, a theoretical explanation of only the basic properties of ion exchange membranes is given.3,4... 

In addition to the approach using phenomenological equations for modelling ion transport in soils, the theory of irreversible thermodynamics may be adapted to soils [26], as for the case of ion-exchange membranes. Spiegler [251 and Kedem and Katchalsky [27,28] are the prime examples of this approach to transport models. The detailed review by Verbrugge and Pintauro contains a number of other references to mathematical approaches for modelling the fundamental electrokinetic phenomena. 

Electrode kinetics, to be considered in the next chapter, are profoundly influenced by the structure of the double layer at an electrode-solution interface and it is with such systems that we shall be primarily concerned. However, double layer theory, as developed for electrode-electrolyte solution interfaces, leads on to the proper interpretation of electrokinetic phenomena, an understanding of the factors affecting colloid stability, and to the elucidation of cell membrane and ion-exchange processes. 

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