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Updated: Feb 7, 2026
09:39
Proof-of-Concept for Gas-Entrapping Membranes Derived from Water-Loving SiO2/Si/SiO2 Wafers for Green Desalination
Published on: March 1, 2020
7.9K
Membrane-based pretreatment to mitigate variations in desalination plants.
J Arevalo1, R Sandin1, M D Kennedy2
1Aqualia Innovation and Technology Department, Av. del Camino de Santiago, 40, edificio 3, 4ª planta, Madrid, Spain
Summary
Ultrafiltration pretreatment of brackish water improves desalination plant operation. This study demonstrates effective membrane performance and cleaning strategies for stable reverse osmosis system function, ensuring potable water supply.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Water Treatment Technology
- Chemical Engineering
Background:
- Desalination is crucial for potable water in water-stressed regions.
- Raw water contains impurities necessitating pretreatment for desalination plants.
- Stable plant operation requires effective removal of suspended solids, organic matter, and colloids.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the filtration performance of a submerged membrane ultrafiltration pilot plant.
- To assess ultrafiltration as a pretreatment for reverse osmosis systems using complex brackish surface water.
- To analyze membrane performance, chemical needs, water quality, and cleaning efficiency.
Main Methods:
- Operation of a submerged membrane ultrafiltration pilot plant.
- Filtration of complex brackish surface water.
- Evaluation of membrane performance metrics and chemical cleaning procedures.
Main Results:
- The ultrafiltration pilot plant demonstrated effective filtration of brackish surface water.
- Key performance indicators including membrane performance, chemical reagent consumption, and water quality were analyzed.
- Alternative chemical cleaning procedures were successfully implemented, achieving significant permeability recovery.
Conclusions:
- Ultrafiltration is an effective pretreatment for reverse osmosis desalination.
- Optimized cleaning procedures ensure stable plant operation and maximize permeability recovery.
- The study provides valuable insights for enhancing desalination efficiency in water-scarce areas.
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