Reverse Osmosis Essay

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RO Definition: It is a liquid filtering process in which a contaminated liquid is forced to pass through a semi-permeable membrane that block most dissolved or suspended contaminants. History In the late 1940s, researchers began examining ways in which pure water could be extracted from salty water. a number of researchers quickly advanced the science and technology of sea water conversion, but UCLA made a significant breakthrough in 1959 and became the first to demonstrate a practical process known as reverse osmosis (RO). How does it work Reverse osmosis works by applying pressure to resist the normal osmotic pressure. Reverse osmosis can remove many types of molecules and ions from solutions and is used in both industrial processes and to produce potable water. The result is that the solute is retained on the pressurized side of the membrane and the pure solvent is allowed to pass to the other side. Applications • Drinking water purification Water filters at home have now evolved to water purifiers consisting of an RO system to remove dirt and dust, and an optional UV system to kill microbes • Water and wastewater purification Rain water collected from storm drains is purified with reverse osmosis water processors and used for landscape irrigation as a solution to the problem of water shortages. • Food industry reverse osmosis is an operation for concentrating food liquids (such as fruit juices) It is used to make whey protein powders too. • Reef aquariums Many reef aquarium keepers use reverse osmosis systems for their artificial mixture of seawater. Ordinary tap water can often contain excessive chlorine, nitrates, silicates, or many other chemicals. RO creates an artificial sea-water environment. • Desalination Areas that have either no or limited or groundwater may choose to desalinate. Reverse osmosis is a common method of

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