Reverse osmosis desalination process modeling and simulation with membrane fouling

Abstract

Analyzing the correlation between the key RO operating conditions and performance indicators requires accurate reverse osmosis (RO) model that facilitates understanding and evaluating membrane performance. This study aims to develop and simulate a dynamic RO model to assess the performance of the RO process under realistic conditions by considering the effects of membrane fouling. Analyzing performance, managing energy use, assessing design (sizing, configuration, network layout), and estimating energy consumption are all possible with the model. Dynamic models have several advantages over steady-state models, including the ability to test and design advanced controllers. Based on the mathematical model presented, a model of RO pressure vessel modules can be built to represent the dynamic behavior of RO pressure vessels. Through MATLAB simulations, we demonstrate how the fidelity and accuracy of the models can be demonstrated.