Potable water technology development in Egypt

Abstract

The availability of fresh water and energy is the key factor in the development of many countries, particularly those of large, overpopulated, arid areas. Potable water supply shortage and recent technological development have led to wider application of conventional, yet advanced saline/brackish water desalination plants. The growing potable water demand in Red Sea and Sinai resorts led to an organized national plan for implementation of desalination technologies [1]. The present work analyzes water demand in Egypt and reviews the current research activities to establish the appropriate technology for adaptation, local manufacturing experiences, unit size, process and economics. Water demand in a vastly growing and developing Egyptian community is characterized by a rising standard of living, expanded industrialization in the mining and petroleum sectors and the vast expansion of tourism development [2]. With the limited resources to support the infrastructure, the problem is acute. Khalil [3] have emphasized the importance of establishing a water master plan, a technoeconomic assessment of the desalting process. The present work reviews water demand, availability, and new developments in small- and medium-sized locally manufactured units. The advantages and limitations, based on technoeconomic concepts of the application of different desalting process in Egypt, are outlined and discussed.