The Reverse osmosis (RO) is that finest pressure-driven diaphragm processes within the membrane filtration. It is used for Separation of almost all dissolved substancesincluding salts, organic molecules, microorganisms and particles, from water or other liquids. The pores of the reverse osmosis membrane are so small that they No physically defined openings in the classical sense - their separating effect is based on Molecular and ion diffusion due to the dense polymer structure.
Functional principle
Reverse osmosis uses the principle of Reversal of natural osmosis.
- In osmosis, solvent (e.g. water) diffuses through a semi-permeable membrane towards a higher concentration of dissolved substances until equilibrium is reached.
- With the Reverse osmosis is created by creating a pressure, which is higher than the osmotic pressureThis natural flow is reversed.
As a result Pure water (permeate) through the membrane, while Dissolved salts, ions, organic substances and microorganisms are retained (retentate).
Typical operating pressures are between 10 and 80 bardepending on the salt concentration of the solution to be treated (e.g. fresh water, brackish water or seawater).
Properties of reverse osmosis membranes
Reverse osmosis membranes usually consist of thin composite systems (Thin Film Composite, TFC) on the basis of Polyamide.
Characteristic features are:
- Extremely high retention rates (> 99 %) for salts, organic molecules and microorganisms
- Very low water permeability - therefore requires high operating pressure
- Sensitivity to chlorine and oxidizing chemicals
- High selectivity and reproducibility
Areas of application
Reverse osmosis is used in many areas where High-purity or demineralized liquids are required:
- Drinking water treatment and seawater desalination
- Production of ultrapure water for electronics, pharmaceuticals and laboratory applications
- Food industry (concentration of fruit juices, milk, wine)
- Waste water treatment and process water treatment
- Energy and chemical industry (boiler feed water, process desalination)
Summary
Reverse osmosis is a Highly efficient separation processwhich is almost pure water in a single step can deliver. It is regarded as Key technology in the modern water treatment and process industry. Due to their High retention rate, Compact design and Chemical-free working method it contributes decisively to Sustainability and resource efficiency industrial processes.
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