Membrane Characterization System

NREL's Flatirons Campus features a membrane characterization system that simulates wave and other non-steady-state conditions for reverse osmosis membrane evaluation.

Capabilities

NREL's reverse osmosis system hosts a variable frequency drive and positive displacement pump so researchers can vary flow and pressure to mimic the high frequency and irregular nature of wave energy.

The system can emulate many of the typical wave states across the globe. It can also:

• Perform focused experimental condition inputs (such as sine waves and linear ramp functions)
• Mimic other variable renewable energy inputs, such as tidal, solar, and wind.

The system tests how membranes tolerate large variations in flow and pressure with relatively high frequencies. Experiments performed using this system can help researchers better understand if wave energy converters can power reverse osmosis systems to produce desalinated water.

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