How does reverse osmosis work in wastewater treatment?

Reverse osmosis is a filtration process that utilizes a semi-permeable membrane to separate contaminants from water. The key principle behind reverse osmosis is the application of pressure to drive water through this membrane. In this process, water molecules pass through the membrane, leaving behind a concentration of dissolved solids, contaminants, and other impurities on one side, while producing clean water on the other side.

This method is particularly effective in wastewater treatment because it can remove a wide range of pollutants, including salts, microorganisms, and organic compounds. The pressure applied is essential because it overcomes the natural osmotic pressure that would otherwise prevent water from moving through the membrane. Thus, the process ensures that clean, usable water is obtained from wastewater, making it a valuable technology in water treatment systems.

Other methods mentioned, like gravitational forces, applying heat, or mixing with chemicals, do not specifically address the mechanism of separation accomplished by reverse osmosis, which relies fundamentally on pressure-driven flow through a semi-permeable barrier.