Membrane Technology in Water Treatment
Thin barriers that separate clean water from salts, particles, and microbes.
Membrane processes force water through a selective barrier. Pore size and pressure determine what is removed.
Main Types
- Microfiltration — particles and some bacteria
- Ultrafiltration — fine particles and pathogens
- Nanofiltration — organics and some salts
- Reverse osmosis — most dissolved salts
Used in drinking water, wastewater reuse, desalination, and membrane bioreactors.
Strengths and Challenges
Consistent quality and compact footprint are strengths. Energy use, fouling, and concentrate disposal are challenges.
Membranes made seawater and advanced reuse realistic for millions of people.