Heart Trabeculae-Inspired Superhydrophilic Electrode for Electric-Assisted Uranium Extraction from Seawater

Abstract

Using nuclear power to replace electricity generated from fossil fuels is an effective strategy to reduce global carbon dioxide emissions and also spurs the search for new sources of nuclear fuel. Extracting uranium from seawater has a significant reserve advantage, although its ultralow concentration presents substantial challenges. Here, inspired by the fractal structure of cardiac trabeculae on the inner surface of the heart, a uranium enrichment electrode with a superhydrophilic and uranium-affinitive fractal surface is developed. This innovative design enhances rapid charge/ion transfer, ensures complete surface wetting, and provides numerous adsorption sites. By synergistically integrating the advantages of electric-assisted processes and bioinspired microstructures predicated on chemical coordination principles, the electrode demonstrates a uranium adsorption capacity of 13.2 mg g⁻¹ following a 7-d exposure to natural seawater. This research not only demonstrates an effective strategy for the development of advanced uranium enrichment electrodes but also provides more possibilities for innovative approaches in sustainable energy technology.