Posted by Reverse osmosis (RO) water treatment is a process that uses a semi-permeable membrane to remove impurities such as dissolved solids, suspended particles, bacteria, and viruses. Here is how it works:
- Semi-permeable Membrane: The RO process utilizes a special membrane that has tiny pores or nanopores. It allows water molecules to pass through while blocking the majority of dissolved solutes and suspended particles.
- Pressure-driven: Reverse osmosis requires the application of high pressure to push the feed water (the water being treated) towards the membrane. This pressure helps overcome the natural osmotic pressure and forces water molecules through the membrane.
- Separation Mechanism: Due to the selective barrier of the membrane, ions and large molecules are rejected while water molecules pass through. The purified water, known as the permeate, flows out on one side of the membrane, while the rejected impurities concentrate on the other side as a waste stream called the reject or concentrate.
- Concentrate Disposal: The concentrated stream, which contains the impurities and suspended particles, needs to be discharged from the system to maintain the efficiency of the membrane. The concentrate can be routed for appropriate disposal or further treatment depending on the specific application.
By utilizing reverse osmosis water treatment, most dissolved solids, suspended particles, bacteria, viruses, and heavy metals present in the source water can be effectively removed, resulting in purified water. Reverse osmosis technology finds extensive applications in drinking water treatment, seawater desalination, industrial wastewater treatment, and other processes where high-purity water is required.