Modular desalting for specialized applications

Will this modular system concept ever replace the idea of large-scale facility construction? This is doubtful, due to the rising water needs of larger population centers. However, this type of system has a useful contribution to make in lower population density areas, tourism development in C. Harris/Desalination new areas, and new approaches for desalination with renewable energy resources. In particular, the lower energy consumption, streamlined selfcontained design, and reduced capital costs makes these systems more available to a greater segment of the world’s population, thus promoting membrane desalination technology even further. Other than population growth and water reuse issues, the growth of tourism within today’s economic structure is probably one of the greater driving forces in the desalination industry. The resort developers have the largest pocketbooks and profit potential, and therefore the justification for potable water from unconventional sources. But making membrane desalination more affordable and easier to obtain just increases the 132 (2000) 269-274 opportunity for the industry to grow, exponentially.