Researchers develop nanocomposite membranes for desalination and water sweetening in Iran

Researchers at Arak University in Iran have produced samples of nanocomposite membranes which, besides having desalination properties, can also help in sweetening of water.

The membrane samples can eliminate heavy metal residues from waste water, reports the Iranian Fars News Agency (FNA).

Comprising of Titanium dioxide nanoparticles, the membranes can be used for purifying industrial wastewater, especially in the petrochemical industry.

The nanoparticles present in the structure of membrane can boost its mechanical behaviour, separation process, and electrochemical properties, according to the researchers.

It can bring down costs by reducing energy consumption in the system as well.

Offering the benefits of ion-exchange, the product can be considered as good as other industrial and commercial products.

The samples feature high selectivity and passing, selective separation, low electrical resistance, mechanical resistance and appropriate chemical stability, reports FNA.

The research aimed at developing a new membrane or modifying an existing one which is used for electrodialysis process during desalination and sweetening water and purification of industrial wastewater.

Ion exchanging membranes are used for desalination processes and for sweetening and concentration of salty water, recycling of valuable metals from industrial wastewater, pharmaceutical industries, food industries and production of chemicals. They are also used for major biological processes or for industrial purposes.