Saudi scientists advance low-energy desalination with next-generation membrane technology
New polymer membranes enable efficient freshwater production from seawater and concentrated brines
Researchers in Saudi Arabia have developed an innovative membrane technology that could significantly reduce the energy required for desalination, supporting long-term water sustainability in arid regions.
Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reports that the new polymer-based membrane is designed to convert seawater and highly concentrated brines into freshwater more efficiently than conventional methods. Operating at ambient temperature and pressure, the membrane achieves exceptionally high salt rejection while consuming substantially less energy, addressing one of the key challenges facing modern desalination systems.
The technology is based on subnanoporous hydrophobic thin films used in membrane distillation. These films allow water vapour to pass through while effectively blocking salts and other contaminants, maintaining performance even when treating brines that are typically difficult and costly to process.
According to the research team, the ability to desalinate highly concentrated brines represents a major step forward, as such streams are often considered waste products of existing desalination plants. Early results indicate that the new membranes retain their efficiency under demanding conditions, opening the door to broader industrial and municipal applications.
Reliable access to freshwater remains a strategic priority for Saudi Arabia, which is among the world’s largest producers of desalinated water. Demand is expected to continue rising due to population growth, urbanisation and industrial development. In this context, technologies that improve efficiency while lowering energy consumption and operating costs are gaining increasing importance.
Unlike many experimental desalination concepts that remain confined to laboratory research, the new membrane technology has progressed to pilot-scale testing. Ongoing trials are focused on evaluating durability, scalability and long-term performance under real operating conditions.
Researchers say the innovation contributes to national and global efforts to enhance water security, reduce the environmental footprint of desalination and accelerate the transition from scientific research to practical solutions for sustainable water management.
Photo: Alex Sholom / iStock
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