ABSTRACT
This chapter shows that the chemical characterization of reverse osmosis (RO) concentrates is directly related to the raw water source. The chemical composition of the concentrates determines the adverse environmental impacts of direct discharges of the effluents. Seawater desalination offers a seemingly unlimited, steady supply of high-quality water, without impairing natural freshwater ecosystems. RO is a membrane technology widely applied in water desalination, the production of potable water, and more recently in tertiary wastewater treatment. Traditional management options for RO concentrates from desalination plants are dependent on the location of the plant. Traditional management options for RO concentrates from desalination plants are dependent on the location of the plant. In coastal desalination plants, RO concentrates are directly discharged to sea, while in inland plants the traditional option consists of reducing the concentrate volume prior to disposal.
