Osmosis is the spontaneous passage of solvents through a semipermeable membrane from a solvent of lower concentration to that of higher concentration. The membrane allows the passage of the solvent but not of solute. Osmosis occurs by the operation of osmotic pressure which results from differences in concentration. Osmosis takes place on the separation of two solutions. The bigger the difference in concentrations, the higher the osmotic pressure. During reverse osmosis, the solvent (pure water) migrates along the membrane between membrane sheets under a pressure relative to its surface and passes through semipermeable sheets of the membrane, leaving solute in the concentrate (contaminated water). The water moving along the membrane ensures the continuity of the membrane's operation and prevents soiling. The process of water treatment with the use of a semipermeable membrane differs from the common filtration process in that it allows for the removal of particles 1000 times smaller than the smallest bacteria.
  • In the 1960s, reverse osmosis technology was used primarily for military purposes. In 1962, US government built first plants producing approximately 3000 liters of water per day for military personnel. During the Cold War era, the system was designed as a precaution in case of a chemical or biological weapon attack.
  • The system was originally developed to provide drinking water for the Marines through the process of desalination.
  • The system is perfect for people with high blood pressure who must maintain a low sodium diet. It is also used in hospital wards specializing in kidney dialysis.
  • Today in the USA the method is used by around 3000 companies. In 1991, the US army purchased 8000 membranes for troops deployed in the Desert Storm operation.
  • In effect of dynamic advances in plastics chemistry in the 1970s, the method found application also for residential water treatment.
  • In the USA and Arabic countries, the retail prices of osmotic water exceed those of mineral water.


    • To date, reverse osmosis technology is used wherever water and its solute need to be separated thoroughly and cost-effectively. Starting now, the Nobel Corporation will make it possible to benefit from what man learned from nature and implemented through the use of technology.