Abstract: Provided are liquid treatment systems (e.g., water desalinization systems, water softening systems, water purification systems), system components, methods of fabricating components and systems, and methods of operating the systems. A liquid treatment system may include a first electrode and a second electrode. During operation of the system, the treated liquid may flow between and, in some embodiments, through these electrodes and release contaminants that are electrolytically deposited on these electrodes. At least one electrode may include a non-conductive support and an active structure mechanically supported by the non-conductive support and a conductive assist structure disposed between the active structure and the non-conductive support. The non-conductive support may be a polymer film, such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) film. Unlike conventional metallic substrates, the non-conductive support is more resistant to corrosion.

Abstract: Provided are methods of passivating active materials for use in electrochemical cells as well as active materials and cell components prepared using such methods. Active material particles may be combined with passivating material particles, and this combination may be mixed together using high shear mixing. The mixed combination may not include any solvents or binders. As such, drying mixing may be performed on this combination of the active material particles and passivating material particles. A passivating layer is formed on the active material particles during mixing. This passivating layer later prevents direct contact between the active material particles and the electrolyte while still allowing ionic exchange. Furthermore, the passivating layer may increase electronic conductivity between active material particles in an electrode. The passivating layer may be mechanically bonded to the surface of the active material particles rather than chemically bonded.