Salinity gradient power or osmotic power is the energy retrieved from the difference in the salt concentration between seawater and river water. Two practical methods for this are Reverse electrodialysis [1] (RED), and Pressure retarded osmosis [2] (PRO).
- Both processes rely on osmosis with ion specific membranes.
- The key waste product is brackish water.
- This byproduct is the result of natural forces that are being harnessed: the flow of fresh water into seas that are made up of salt water.
- The technologies have been confirmed in laboratory conditions. They are being developed into commercial use in the Netherlands (RED) and Norway (PRO).
- The cost of the membrane has been an obstacle. A new, cheap membrane, based on an electrically modified polyethylene plastic, made it fit for potential commercial use [3]
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