OREANDA-NEWS Previously the membrane distillation method was used, in which salt water was filtered through a polymer film with small pores, passing only liquid molecules. The new wood membrane has improved the process.

“Traditional liquid filtration required a high pressure pump that consumes large amounts of electricity. We found a way to cut costs,” explained scientist Jason Wren.

The new membrane is made of chemically treated timber. All excess wood fibers are separated, so the surface of the film becomes slippery. One side of the membrane heats up, so water evaporates during filtration. The resulting vapor is collected on the cold side, where the salt settles. The invention allows to purify 20 liters of water per square meter per hour.