Reverse Osmosis is an effective mechanical water treatment process for reducing 95% to 99% of the dissolved mineral salts, organics and particles by forcing the water, under pressure, through a semi-permeable membrane. TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) is the typical use for reverse osmosis along with pre-treatment for Deionization. The Recovery rate (% feed water converted to product water) is normally in the 50% to 75% range. Low-energy membranes are used which allows for smaller high-pressure pumps, thus reducing energy use. Pre-treatment is usually required to remove turbidity (multi-layer filter), chlorine (carbon filter) and hardness (water softener) should these contaminants be in the water supply. Post-treatment systems along with atmospheric storage and repressurization systems are also available.
