Desalination Breakthrough - 30%-40% better RO Membranes

  • Thread starter Thread starter Tom.G
  • Start date Start date
AI Thread Summary
Recent research has revealed that thicker desalination membranes can enhance performance by 30%-40% due to improved uniformity in density and mass distribution. This breakthrough addresses inconsistencies that previously limited the efficiency of reverse osmosis (RO) membranes. Achieving uniform density at the nanoscale is crucial for maximizing clean water production. The findings suggest potential for cheaper and more effective water filtration solutions. This advancement could significantly impact desalination technology and water accessibility.
Tom.G
Science Advisor
Gold Member
Messages
5,661
Reaction score
4,504
Turns out that thicker membranes work better, now they know why.

The researchers determined desalination membranes are inconsistent in density and mass distribution, which can hold back their performance. Uniform density at the nanoscale is the key to increasing how much clean water these membranes can create.

Short article from Univ. of Texas researchers:
https://news.utexas.edu/2020/12/31/desalination-breakthrough-could-lead-to-cheaper-water-filtration/

Technical article in Science Magazine but it's behind a paywall: :cry:
https://science.sciencemag.org/content/371/6524/72
(DOI: 10.1126/science.abb8518)

Cheers,
Tom
 
  • Like
Likes hutchphd and Lord Jestocost
Engineering news on Phys.org
Isn't this something every barista already knows?
 
Back
Top