Membrane selection and design considerations for meeting European potable water requirements based on different feedwater conditions

The paper presents the latest developments and specifications of FILMTEC membranes and elements for drinking water production and water for the soft drinks industry. Performance data are given from 16 field installations. The developments focus on brackish water reverse osmosis (BWRO) and nanofiltration (NF) and particularly nitrates, hardness, sulfate and bicarbonate reduction and/or removal of organic mater plus disinfection of drinking water, mainly to meet European potable water requirements. Additionally, some energy consumption related and other technical-economical considerations are presented in the form of relative cost figures. The performance data of two BWRO-based programs for nitrate and organic matter reduction are presented. The data are based upon numerous plants. One NF70-based hardness and sulfate reduction plant and one bicarbonate reduction and water conditioning plant for soft drink production are presented as well. The case histories presented clearly show that the membrane plants, when properly designed and operated, are one of the most economical ways of treating for European potable water and soft drink industry requirements. The new generation of FILMTEC membranes, with their larger area and higher flux efficiency are becoming an excellent choice for numerous new applications and plant retrofits.