Concentrating on the Brine: Membrane Research on Resource Recovery and Emerging Contaminants

Concentrate management is a well-known challenge in treating water with the use of reverse osmosis membranes, particularly for inland facilities. However, some membrane researchers view brine as both a burden and a tool. This webinar explores the advances of managing concentrate through volume reduction and the innovative ways that concentrate is being used to tackle emerging contaminants, such as perflourinated compounds.

This webinar offers the viewer a wide perspective of the issues and opportunities involved in concentrate management. It includes case studies from government, academia, and industry focused on how membrane technology plays a role in balancing treatment objectives and also waste management.  It presents the viewer with a breadth of insights, from the traditional volume reduction challenges of a water treatment facility in Chino, Calif., to the operation of a Texan zero discharge facility in the energy sector. The webinar also presents novel ways that membranes are being used to concentrate emerging contaminants and highlights ongoing research and development conducted at the US Bureau of Reclamation, including a concentrate management toolbox, evaluation of contaminants of emerging concerns in RO concentrate, and the “More Water Less Concentrate” prize competition.

Learning Objectives:

1. Understand operational challenges and opportunities associated with concentrate management.
2. Evaluate membrane technology used at energy sector zero discharge facilities for applicability to water sector applications.
3. Employ membrane concentrate to remove emerging contaminants.
4. Plan ahead for future concentrate management improvements in developing technologies.