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
