Ultra low-pressure reverse osmosis (ULPRO) membrane for desalination: Current challenges and future directions

Demand for a cost-effective and energy-efficient technology to supply fresh water from saline water has led to the development of ultra-low-pressure RO (ULPRO). The ULPRO provides higher pure water flux at lower operating pressure while maintaining a high rejection of salt and organic compounds. In this paper, the ULPRO membranes are reviewed comprehensively, starting from the emergence of ULPRO membranes and advancement strategies to improve their performance during the desalination processes. The development of thin film nanocomposite RO membranes and the utilization of nanomaterials in membrane modification have also been discussed. The prospects of hollow fiber membrane in addressing the high surface and packing density requirements with considerably low manufacturing cost and pressure drop are also brought forward. Finally, current challenges and future directions of ULPRO membranes for desalination are also provided as guidance for further improvements.

Automated summary

The development of ultra-low-pressure RO (ULPRO) membranes provides a cost-effective and energy-efficient technology for supplying fresh water from saline water. This paper comprehensively reviews the emergence of ULPRO membranes, the strategies for improving their performance, and the utilization of nanomaterials in membrane modification. The prospects of hollow fiber membrane in addressing the high surface and packing density requirements with low manufacturing cost and pressure drop are also discussed. Furthermore, the current challenges and future directions of ULPRO membranes for desalination are provided as guidance for further improvements.