FROM OCEAN TO TABLE :
With no true break in California ’ s drought conditions coming anytime soon , seawater desalination may prove to be mandatory for the state ’ s continued fresh water consumption
is more prevalent and offers several key benefits : In India ’ s National Institute of Ocean Technology , it was used to produce 100,000 liters per day at a cost of just over USD $ 1 million .
In addition , with thermal desalination and basic membrane methods ( without the most advanced membrane technology ), the brine material must be mixed with seawater at a 5:1 ratio prior to being put back into the water to minimize the impact of high salt concentration in any one area . High concentrations of salt released along the coastlines can impact flora and fauna and impacts tolerance limits of all living materials within the region .
However , with reverse osmosis , it ’ s possible to remove the salt particles and use them for other applications , reducing the amount of brine created .
Plants like the Sorek in Israel , which is the largest membrane system in the world and produces potable water for 1.5 million people , have found ways to manage expenses through this method as well . This plant utilizes 16-inch membranes in its newest innovative vertical array , which has helped to decrease overall cost .
Likewise , a plant practicing reserve osmosis in Argentina uses higher-quality membrane capable of withstanding pressures of 7 to 8.5 atm and as a result , has improved efficiency 60 to 75 percent .
ADOPTING DESALINATION There will be a continual need to refine and improve these methods to reduce the taxing impact on the environment and on local government costs ; however , with no true break in California ’ s drought conditions coming anytime soon , seawater desalination may prove to be mandatory for the state ’ s continued fresh water consumption .
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