Forward Osmosis (FO)—Exploring Niche in Various Applications: A Review

Abstract

As industrialization and urbanization are escalating, so is the water resources scarcity and pollution problem as well as energy demand. Urbanization and development have been a great threat to the water resources and play a major role in water pollution problem if not planned in a sustainable way. Nowadays, more focus is on water recycling and reuse. Forward osmosis (FO) is an emerging technology providing a great alternative approach compared to conventional water/wastewater treatment techniques. FO works on the principle of differential osmotic pressure of feed solution, FS (low osmotic potential) and draw solution, DS (high osmotic potential) with no hydraulic pressure and low fouling. FO has been applied in various industrial applications, viz. food and beverage, textile, oil and gas and pulp and paper, etc. Many FO membranes and DSs of desired characteristics have been developed and studied. But, still, there are many challenges and issues that need to be considered and resolve. This paper provides the information on the FO process, membrane fouling, DS concept and applicability of the FO/FO-hybrid technology in the various sectors.