REVERSE OSMOSIS EXPLAINED
Reverse Osmosis is a popular method utilized in recycling and wastewater treatment, as well as consumer water filtration systems. It was back in the 1950s that scientists first considered the use of RO to desalinate ocean water, and although it worked, it was not practical due to the small volume produced. This changed when two UCLA scientists created hand-cast membranes made from cellular acetate, allowing larger quantities of water to move through the RO process more efficiently. In 1965, the first commercial RO desalination plant began running a small scale operation in Coalinga, California.
Reverse Osmosis is a popular method utilized in recycling and wastewater treatment, as well as consumer water filtration systems. It was back in the 1950s that scientists first considered the use of RO to desalinate ocean water, and although it worked, it was not practical due to the small volume produced. This changed when two UCLA scientists created hand-cast membranes made from cellular acetate, allowing larger quantities of water to move through the RO process more efficiently. In 1965, the first commercial RO desalination plant began running a small scale operation in Coalinga, California.
With a membrane that captures even the smallest particles, Reverse Osmosis (RO) is pretty amazing technology. Considered one of the best by the EPA, and shown to positively impact health, this technology is being implemented all over the world. From residential homes to large-scale plants filtering millions of gallons per day, RO is at the forefront of clean water. Take a look behind the scenes.
WHAT IS OSMOSIS AND HOW IS IT REVERSED?
The EPA describes Reverse Osmosis as units that “force water through a semi-permeable membrane under pressure, leaving contaminants behind. “ The process involves more than simply forcing water through a “screen”. RO requires a considerable amount of water pressure.
Get a visual of the process by checking out this video by the Government of South Australia, which uses RO to desalinate water in Adelaide.
