Desalination is the process of removing salt and other minerals from water, which includes municipal wastewater, some types of groundwater, and in some cases seawater (saline water). There are different methods, but a common one is called reverse osmosis. Reverse osmosis is an important process done in water treatment plants, especially where freshwater sources are not readily available. Here is a simplified explanation of how it works:
Step 1: Pretreatment
The water is run through a filter to remove things like bacteria, chemicals, microorganisms and other substances. The filters are usually activated carbon.
Step 2: Adding pressure
Pressure is added to the water by a pump. This moves the water through a system of membranes, which come in different types and materials depending on the operating pressure.
Step 3: Separation through membranes
The reverse osmosis membranes work to separate as much dissolved salt from the water as possible – leaving a very small percentage behind.
Step 4: Stabilizing
The now desalinated water is adjusted for pH if needed, and checked for dissolved gasses (degasification). Then it is free to use for community, industrial or agricultural purposes.
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