Microbial desalination technology offers a promising platform for salt removal processes and for the recovery of ionic compounds. In terms of operation, systems without potential control (microbial desalination cell, MDC) and applying anode potential control (microbial electrolysis desalination cell, MEDC) can be primarily implemented. In this study, a comparative assessment of the different operational modes is carried out by using acetate-fed mixed culture MDC and MEDC reactors for NaCl removal (with 35 g L⁻¹ initial concentration) in three-chamber setup. Desalination efficiency, kinetics, as well as the occurring electrochemical losses are evaluated.

In addition, ion exchange membrane (IEM) performance and stability are addressed. It was found that MEDC mode led to faster desalination and better NaCl removal (~ 45 %) during 24 h long batches, compared to MDC (40.3 %), thanks to the ~12 % higher (j = 12 ± 5 A m⁻³) and more consistent current density generated. Severe diffusional losses occurred in both systems, leading to ~80 % decrease in desalination rate after 24 h of operation. In addition, IEM ionic conductivity was significantly reduced after 40 d long employment. Future research needs and directions are highlighted for system performance enhancement.

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Extensive research on horizontal tube falling film evaporation in desalination has been conducted on flow modes, flow and heat transfer characteristics and enhanced heat transfer structures. Studies on the flow modes have found that the heat transfer rate of the droplet mode is was markedly greater than that of the column mode and sheet mode due to the effects of thinning liquid film and increasing interface area in the droplet falling film evaporation.

The current measures to attain droplet falling film evaporation on smooth horizontal tubes involve reducing its flow density to the extent that the reduced flow density is less than the critical flow density (defined as the minimum flow density for the fully wetted horizontal tube). Therefore, the occurrence of dry patches on the tube surface [27,28] deteriorates the heat transfer rate in droplet falling film evaporation, resulting in the impossibility of its practical application in the desalination industry. The micro-nano structures on the surfaces of horizontal tubes manufactured by the micro-electromechanical system, play an important role in addressing the issue of dry patches in the droplet falling film evaporation by decreasing the contact angle of the horizontal tubes and increasing their wettability.

In contrast with the smooth horizontal tube, the critical flow density of the micro-nano structured horizontal tube is decreased by 90 %, and its falling film heat transfer coefficient is increased by more than two times.

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We focus on the key characteristics required for chlorine-resistant seawater RO membranes, and acid/base-resistant NF membranes for wastewater fractionation. We also highlight the impetus to focus on how TFC membranes can be used for resource recovery applications, such as the extraction of valuable ions from wastewater and brines.

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As the year comes to an end, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude for the trust you’ve placed in us, the positive feedback we’ve received, and the unwavering optimism we’ve shared in shaping a sustainable future together. Your collaboration and support have been invaluable to us.

We wish you and your families a wonderful holiday season and a successful start to 2024! As a small token of our appreciation, we’ve created a festive greeting card blending holiday spirit with themes of seawater desalination. It reflects the global nature of our work and our commitment to innovation.

Thank you once again for being part of this journey. Together, we look forward to embracing new opportunities and challenges in the coming year.

Warm regards,
The Team at Desalination Institute DME

The post International Holiday Greetings from the Desalination Institute DME – Germany appeared first on Desalination Institute DME - Water Desalination Resources.

he BMC is shifting its focus to upgrading the Colaba Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) in Mumbai after its previous attempt to build a desalination plant failed to attract bidders. Currently, the treated water from this STP is used for non-potable purposes such as gardening, road cleaning, and vehicle washing.

However, BMC plans to enhance the plant’s capacity to 15 million liters per day (MLD) and convert it into an advanced tertiary plant. This upgrade will enable the plant to treat sewage water, making it safe for drinking.

Every year, the city’s reliance on its seven lakes for drinking water causes concern during the monsoon. To improve the water supply, the BMC revived its plan for a desalination plant with a capacity of 200 MLD, which could later be expanded to 400 MLD, to be located in Manori, Malad.

However, after failing to attract bidders despite extending the deadline multiple times over the past year, the BMC has scrapped the tender process and rolled back the proposal. Instead of inviting a fresh tender, the civic body has now shifted its focus to upgrading its sewage treatment plants (STPs).

(Source)

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