Performance evaluation and mathematical modeling of reverse osmosis membrane desalination unit

The use of reverse osmosis (RO) membranes for desalination has gained popularity in generating drinking water from seawater sources. This study assesses the performance of a single-module feed-forward reverse osmosis (RO) system, representing the membrane module as a tubular module with feed flow on the tube side. A superstructure for the single-module feed-forward RO system forms the basis for a comprehensive mathematical model of the RO system. Mass, materials, and energy balances are meticulously applied to all system components. The study also explores external factors’ influence, such as feed parameters, utility costs, and product costs, on RO system performance and optimal design. It delves into parameters affecting unit performance, including feed characteristics and operational conditions. Additionally, the impact of feed specifications and operating conditions on concentration polarization within each module is investigated. The obtained results showed that the total permeate from the unit decreases with higher salt concentration on the membrane wall as the feed concentration increases, while the unit cost remains constant. In addition, the rise in feed flow rate and feed temperature led to a decrease in wall concentration. Finally, a substantial 20% reduction in wall concentration was generated with approaching the upper limits endorsed by module manufacturers for feed temperature.