After finishing this lesson, you will be able to discuss the scientific principles on which reverse osmosis technology is based and explain the primary function of a reverse osmosis desalination system. You will also be able to identify the key components of a typical reverse osmosis system, with an emphasis on membrane technology, and describe the importance of permeate recovery percentage. • State the main purpose of reverse osmosis technology • Discuss the scientific principles of osmosis and osmotic pressure • State the purpose of high pressure pumps in a reverse osmosis system • Identify the main components of a spiral wound reverse osmosis membrane • Describe the construction of spiral wound membranes and discuss how they separate permeate and concentrate from feedwater • Describe the construction and purpose of a reverse osmosis vessel • Discuss the flow of saline water through a reverse osmosis system from intake to collection • Discuss the purpose of energy recovery systems used in a reverse osmosis desalination system • Describe the purpose of reverse osmosis pre- and post-treatment applications • Calculate permeate recovery percentage and describe factors that can affect this percentage
