The integrated/hybrid membrane systems for membrane desalination

Freshwater scarcity is a global issue that is further exacerbated by both economic and population growth. Membrane desalination possesses the potential to address water stress issues, but membrane fouling has affected its performance and widespread application in the desalination industry. An integrated/hybrid membrane system, a process in which membrane filtration unit (microfiltration/ultrafiltration/nanofiltration/reverse osmosis) is combined with other techniques like adsorption and ion exchange, has shown to improve the desalination performance. In this chapter, the integrated/hybrid membrane systems used in desalination plants are reviewed with special emphasis on the improved performance and cost benefits. The comprehensive literature review shows that there are many benefits that could be achieved by using such integrated systems in desalination plants, namely, an improvement in water quality produced, energy efficiency, reduced fouling, and others. Hence, such systems can be inferred to enhance the potential of membrane desalination and provide a breakthrough in resolving the issue of global water stress.