Apparatus for monitoring reverse osmosis membrane condition
US9244021B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 27, 2013 |
| Grant date | Jan 26, 2016 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 15, 2034 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB01D61/12
- WIPO fieldChemical engineering
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
A microwave imaging sensor is disclosed for continuously monitoring the condition and status of an in situ reverse osmosis membrane that forms a semi-permeable barrier between a region of water containing a dissolved salt and a region of water which is intended to be substantially free of the dissolved salt. A device according to embodiments of the invention can be used to monitor the condition of the membrane, i.e., the ability of the membrane to filter water by reverse osmosis; and to detect failures in the membrane such as leaking saline water into the output stream. The results of the monitoring can be used to determine in real time whether or not the membrane should be replaced.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.