Application of batch reverse osmosis as an appropriate technology for inland desalination: Design, modeling, and operating strategies

Abstract

Despite the recent development of desalination, water scarcity problems in rural areas with insufficient infrastructure cannot be easily resolved. Although batch reverse osmosis (BRO), with its compact design and high second-law efficiency, presents a promising solution for low-energy desalination, the implementation of BRO in rural or energy-deficient regions remains challenging. This study suggests a novel concept of BRO as an appropriate technology (BRO-AT) powered by alternative energy sources, particularly livestock, aiming to achieve high recovery and permeate flux without external electricity. To effectively utilize the BRO-AT, two operating strategies, center supply and village-sharing, are proposed according to local livestock availability. Livestock working schedules were considered to analyze the performance of BRO-AT practically. In high recovery and large permeate flux cases, maximum recovery and permeate flux reached 0.9165 and 3.72 m3/d, respectively. Average recoveries of 0.8296 and 0.6937, and water production rates of 1.15 m3/d and 0.96 m3/d, were achieved using the center supply and village-sharing methods, respectively. This analysis demonstrates the feasibility of BRO-AT for rural regions and highlights the importance of understanding the dynamic characteristics of alternative power sources. The findings provide design and operation guidelines for BRO-AT, offering insights for future utilization and application in energy-limited areas.