U.S.-Korea Cooperative Research: Wind-Powered Reverse Osmosis Desalination

University Of Hawaii, Honolulu

Investigators

Abstract

0090193 Liu This award supports Professor Clark C. Liu, Department of Civil Engineering, University of Hawaii, to conduct collaborative research with Dr. Jae-Woo Park of Ewha Womans University in Korea. The joint study will investigate problems associated with desalination of water using wind-powered reverse osmosis. Principal objectives of the project include development of a feedback control sub-system and investigation of fouling mechanisms associated with wind-powered reverse osmosis desalination. Fresh water is a major factor in limiting the sustainable development of many remote regions. The problem is compounded for many islands and other remote locations where a short supply of electricity does not allow the use of electricity for desalination. Thus, development of desalination technology that utilizes wind energy for the reverse osmosis process holds great potential. This project will combine the complementary expertise and facilities of the American and Korean laboratories to advance our mutual understanding of the problem.