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Making waves: Conceptualization of seawater-augmented potable reuse
Bana H Dahdah1, Kelly M Conway1, Andrew Salveson2
1Sonny Astani Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Southern California, 3620 S. Vermont Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA.
Water Research
|September 20, 2025
Summary
This study introduces seawater-augmented potable reuse, integrating seawater into water reuse facilities to increase supply without major infrastructure changes. This approach mitigates risks associated with separate desalination and reuse projects.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Engineering
- Water Resources Management
- Chemical Engineering
Background:
- Growing water scarcity necessitates innovative solutions for potable water supply.
- Coastal regions face unique challenges combining wastewater reclamation and desalination.
- Existing potable water reuse facilities can be enhanced to incorporate seawater.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present the novel concept of seawater-augmented potable reuse for coastal facilities.
- To conceptualize treatment trains for indirect and direct potable reuse scenarios.
- To assess the integration of seawater into existing advanced water purification processes.
Main Methods:
- Conceptualization of four treatment trains for potable water reuse.
- Integration of seawater from three intake types into existing facilities.
- Analysis of seawater pretreatment requirements based on quality and intake type.
Main Results:
- Seawater augmentation can increase water supply at coastal facilities with minimal infrastructure.
- Existing advanced water purification processes can be utilized effectively.
- Pretreatment needs vary based on seawater quality, intake method, and facility processes.
Conclusions:
- Seawater-augmented potable reuse offers a viable strategy to enhance water supply and reduce project risks.
- Further laboratory and pilot testing are essential for validation.
- Collaboration between water, wastewater, and desalination industries is crucial for implementation.
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