Glossary

Our glossary explains technical terms from the area water research. We hope it facilitates the understanding of this publication. If you have comments or suggestions, please use our feedback form!

Reverse osmosis

The process of osmosis involves the diffusion (movement) of a solvent (e.g. water) through a semi-permeable membrane (i.e. permeable only to the solvent). The solvent moves from the area with the lower concentration of the dissolved substance to that with the higher concentration. In the case of reverse osmosis, the natural osmosis process is reversed through the application of pressure. The salts are retained by the membrane and discharged in the form of concentrate.