Osmotek, Membrane: The Concept

	Membranes are used as semipermeable barriers between liquids. They allow certain components to pass through (the permeate) while rejecting others (the retentate). A separation is achieved by applying a driving force to cause permeate to pass through the membrane. In direct osmosis leachate treatment, the osmotic pressure of salt brine drives the separation. A 9% salt brine has an osmotic driving force equivalent to 1,100 psi. << NEXT PAGE >>
Membrane processes offer several advantages over conventional evaporation and distillation processes: Lower energy costs—Membrane processes use energy only to pump liquid through the system. No energy is required to heat and vaporize the liquid. Reliability—The primary equipment for membrane processes is membrane modules and electric pumps. The modules have no moving parts and are easily replaced. Electric pumps have fewer mechanical components than evaporators and require less maintenance. Reduced capital costs—Because the process operates near room temperature, corrosion is minimized. Less expensive construction materials may be used, saving capital costs. Pollution control—Electric-driven membrane systems eliminate emissions released by fuel-fired evaporation or distillation processes.

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MEMBRANES: THE CONCEPT