Australian firm Osmoflo Water Management and US-based Aqua Membranes have joined forces to integrate Aqua Membranes’ 3D printed spacer technology for reverse osmosis (RO) membranes with Osmoflo’s expertise in integration and operations, aiming to provide advanced water and wastewater treatment solutions. This partnership will concentrate on creating next-generation, optimized desalination solutions for both industrial and municipal sectors.
With backing from its shareholder, Kanadevia Corporation of Osaka, Japan, Osmoflo has also invested in Aqua Membranes as part of their Series B fundraising efforts, facilitating the expansion of US manufacturing capabilities and global supply options.
Through this exclusive agreement, Osmoflo will distribute Aqua Membranes’ RO membranes featuring the 3D-printed spacer technology to clients, asset owners, and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) throughout Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific. Additionally, these membranes will be incorporated into Osmoflo’s own integrated water treatment systems.
Aqua Membranes’ 3D printed spacer technology presents several advantages over traditional mesh spacers, which have remained largely unchanged for over four decades. These benefits include enhanced energy efficiency, reduced fouling, and increased water output.
Osmoflo CEO Carmine Ciccocioppo remarked, “We have already seen impressive performance from [Aqua Membranes’ RO membrane] compared to standard spiral wound membranes in several of our facilities over the past 12-18 months.”
These innovations will help clients fulfill their commitments to decarbonize infrastructure and reach sustainability targets while ensuring access to fresh water, particularly in light of the rising global demand for climate-independent sources.
“Aqua Membranes’ innovative approach to feed spacer technology represents one of the most significant advancements in RO technology since the introduction of thin film composites about 50 years ago,” noted Osmoflo CTO Neil Palmer. “We have conducted extensive testing of the new membranes under challenging industrial conditions, and the outcomes have surpassed our expectations.”
By lowering energy consumption and prolonging membrane life, Aqua Membranes’ technology not only leads to cost savings but also reduces environmental impact. The company received international recognition as the ‘Breakthrough Technology Company of the Year’ at the 2023 Global Water Summit.
This partnership enables customers to utilize the 3D printed spacers to enhance their RO operations and performance, offering solutions for challenging water sources that conventional RO membranes cannot effectively treat.
Aqua Membranes CEO Craig Beckman stated, “Osmoflo is an outstanding company that shares our dedication to developing innovative solutions for the ongoing water crisis. We eagerly anticipate collaborating with them to showcase the effectiveness of our printed spacer technology.”
Source : Aqua Membranes
