Technoeconomic considerations in reverse osmotic concentration of seawater

Abstract

Conditions of reverse osmotic concentration of seawater as the first step in the salt production are analysed. By separating out two third of the total water content of seawater the bulkiest phase in the salt production could be remarkably accelerated. Reverse osmotic concentration can be accomplished in a two-stage process with a moderate membrane rejection factor in the first stage. The seawater concentration is accompained by the fresh water production in the second stage. The analysis of the technoeconomical data justifies the principle, and shows that it could be successfully implemented.