Problem: Reverse Osmosis (RO) is a water purification process that uses a semipermeable membrane to remove ions, molecules, and large particles from water.  Wastewater / pretreated water, under pressure, is forced through a film composite or cellulose membrane.  The typical issues using RO is its low water recovery rate. RO water recovery rate ranges from 50% to 75% of the water feed. The waste is known as brine.

Technology: Electrodialysis Reversal (Desalination Technology)

• Evoqua’s designed new electrodialysis reversal (EDR) device (NEXED) that uses 1/2 energy of most RO plants
• NEXED’s new membrane design utilizes more of the membrane’s surface area, which increases cost effectiveness
• NEXED is capable of recovering 97% of the feed water, reducing brine.

Stakeholders:

• Water-treatment facility
• Desalination plant
• Manufacturing require water – e.g., semiconductor, food & beverage, etc.

Deployment:

• Identify type of wastewater being generated. type solids in waste water
• Determine desired water recovery (water scarce areas have higher incentive to maximize recovery feed water)
• Implement pilot program