Development of a reliable low-cost reverse osmosis desalination unit for remote communities

Robinson, R., Ho, G. and Mathew, K. (1992) Development of a reliable low-cost reverse osmosis desalination unit for remote communities. Desalination, 86 (1). pp. 9-26.

Abstract

Research was carried out for two years to investigate the potential of using renewable energy pumped reverse osmosis (RO) for ground water desalination in remote Aboriginal communities of Australia. This has resulted in the development of a prototype pilot scale, low-pressure, wind-powered RO system. This paper presents the prototype design, construction and field testing to determine the quantity and quality of desalinated water produced and the reliability of the prototype operating under field conditions. Conclusions are drawn as to the operating requirements for use with typical Western Australian ground waters and in the Aboriginal community setting.