What impurities can RO membrane remove?

Reverse osmosis (RO) technology has become a popular choice for water treatment in both residential and industrial applications. RO is a filtration process that uses a semi-permeable membrane to remove impurities from water. But what exactly can an RO membrane remove?
In general, RO membranes are effective at removing a wide range of contaminants from water, including:

1. Dissolved minerals and salts: RO membranes excel at removing dissolved minerals, salts, and other inorganic compounds from water. These include calcium, magnesium, sodium, and chloride ions, among others. By removing these impurities, RO can help to improve the taste and quality of drinking water, as well as prolong the lifespan of equipment that uses water.

2. Organic compounds: RO membranes can also remove a variety of organic compounds from water, including pesticides, herbicides, and other chemicals. This makes RO a valuable tool for industries that need to purify water for manufacturing processes, as well as for homeowners concerned about contaminants in their drinking water.

3. Bacteria and viruses: RO membranes are capable of removing many types of bacteria and viruses from water. However, it is important to note that not all RO systems are designed to remove microbiological contaminants, and additional treatment may be required in some cases.

4. Heavy metals: Depending on the type of RO membrane used, it may also be capable of removing certain heavy metals from water, such as lead, arsenic, and mercury. This can be especially important for households with older plumbing systems or in areas with high levels of heavy metal contamination.

5. Total dissolved solids (TDS): RO membranes are effective at reducing the total dissolved solids (TDS) in water, which refers to the concentration of various dissolved minerals and salts. TDS reduction is often a key goal for water treatment, as high TDS levels can lead to issues such as scale buildup and poor water quality.

In summary, RO membranes are capable of removing a wide range of impurities from water, making them a powerful tool for water treatment. However, not all RO systems are created equal, and the effectiveness of an RO membrane will depend on a variety of factors, including the quality of the water source, the type of membrane used, and the specific contaminants present in the water. It is important to consult with a water treatment professional to determine the appropriate treatment strategy for your specific needs.