Turning saltwater into freshwater using a centrifuge?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the feasibility of using a centrifuge to convert saltwater into freshwater. Participants explore theoretical and practical aspects of this idea, including methods of separation and alternative approaches.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest that using a centrifuge could be possible but may be expensive.
  • Others argue that a centrifuge cannot separate dissolved salt from water, as salt is in solution.
  • One participant proposes that evaporating the water and condensing it is a more effective method for desalination.
  • Another participant mentions that if the centrifuge spins fast enough, it could increase the concentration of salt on one side, but this would be limited by the maximum solubility of salt at the given temperature.
  • A later reply discusses the potential of using an ultracentrifuge cascade to separate saltwater if there is an initial difference in salinity, but notes that it may not be practical compared to reverse osmosis.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the effectiveness of using a centrifuge for desalination, with no consensus reached on its practicality compared to other methods.

Contextual Notes

Some claims depend on specific conditions such as temperature and initial salinity differences, which are not fully explored in the discussion.

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Just a thought that occurred to me while sitting around. Well?
 
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Possible but expensive
 
Salt dissolves in water. A centrifuge will not separate out something that is in solution.
 
HallsofIvy said:
Salt dissolves in water. A centrifuge will not separate out something that is in solution.

Yep, your best bet is just to evaporate it and condense it.
 
If the centrifuge turns fast enough, then the concentration of salt can be increased on one side. It cannot become larger than the maximum concentration that can be dissolved at the temperature it is in; salt crystals will form in the water if you attempt to exceed that limit.
 
With an ultracentrifuge cascade you could separate salt water if there is a starting point of any difference in salinity.
But as I said it's not really practical compared to reverse osmosis.
 

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