The technology of reverse osmosis concentrate disposal in water treatment systems

Summary

The use of membrane reverse osmosis units in drinking water treatment is complicated by the presence of the concentrate waste streams that are to be disposed. The technology of removing (crystallization) calcium carbonate contained in the concentrate on crystal seeds is suggested and experimentally tested. From natural water the reverse osmosis units can produce deep-desalinated (softened) water and water with lowered concentration of calcium and bicarbonate ions with total dissolved solids concentration similar to that in raw water. The developed technology can be efficiently used in drinking water treatment as well as in integrated boiler and heating network makeup water preparation.

Key words

reverse osmosis , water desalination , crystal seeds , water concentrating , feed water , boilers , heating network makeup