You may have been wondering what your marine water filter should do. Here are some things to keep in mind: oyster reefs, UV purification, Reverse osmosis, and Membrane filters. These are all great for different reasons, but for marine use, the reverse osmosis method is best. It is highly effective at filtering out contaminants and is often the method of choice for desalination and water makers. Reverse osmosis systems work by pushing water through a specialized membrane that allows only specific molecules to pass through.
Reverse Osmosis
Reverse osmosis (RO) is a process that removes large amounts of contaminants from water. The process involves forcing water through a semipermeable membrane with high concentrations of some solutes and low concentrations of others. The most common application of reverse osmosis is in separating pure water from seawater. The water passes through the membrane under pressure, forcing the seawater to push salt-depleted water through the low-pressure side, while the water on the other side is pure drinking.
The amount of contaminants removed from water depends on the type of membrane used in the process. High-quality TFC membranes can remove 95% or more of nitrates and silicates. On the other hand, Hi-F membranes provide higher GPD (gallons per day) of water. Both types of membranes have their advantages and drawbacks. Hi-F membranes work best for purifying water from various contaminants, including chlorides.
Membrane Filters
Membrane filters for marine water are effective in removing the CaCO3 salts present in seawater. These particles have a diameter of between 1.5 and 20 mm and should be reduced to around 50 microns using RO membranes. The four membranes studied for this purpose are NF, UF, and RO. Among these types, the FP100 was the most effective, while the ES404 and AFC40 membranes failed to do so. These studies show that the NF, RO, and Zheng and Vinson membranes can remove the CaCO3 salts from the seawater.
Membrane filtration has many applications. It is used in industrial and municipal applications for drinking, distilled, and wastewater treatment. It is also used in the food and pharmaceutical industries for infusion solutions and the production of medicines. The process involves using high-pressure membranes, pumps, an embedded regulator, and any pre-treatment required. The membrane filtration process removes pollutants, organic colloid substances, and viruses and bacteria.
Oyster Reefs
Overfishing, pollution, and non-native species are threatening the survival of oysters. This species functions as the ocean’s kidneys, filtering contaminants and releasing cleaner water. In a Stanford University study, oysters removed up to 80% of pollutants from the water. In addition, oysters can prevent up to 90% of wave energy in some areas. Hence, their importance cannot be overstated.
The primary purpose of rebuilding an oyster reef is to maintain the population, so other benefits, such as improving the coastal environment, are secondary goals. Recent NC State University graduate Seth Theuerkauf, an environmental scientist, is integrating the ecosystem services that oysters provide into the rebuilding effort. He wants to protect the future of the oysters, improve the coastal environment and increase the “bang for the buck” of the public money spent on the restoration.
UV Purification
UV light can kill many pathogens, bacteria, and microorganisms that can be present in water. This type of disinfection works by sterilizing water by mutating its DNA. The process has no adverse effect on the water’s taste and smell. It can even help prevent the spread of microorganisms and the production of toxic by-products. It can be used in a marine environment, including in freshwater lakes, reservoirs, and lakes.
Various types of UV systems are available in the market today. Some plans are point-of-use, while others are whole-house systems. Depending on your style, you will have to determine whether it’s an effective UV water purifier for your aquarium. In addition to the type of UV system you choose, consider the kind of light needed to achieve the desired results. Make sure to select a system that provides near-40,000 nanowatts of UV light.
Screen-Based Filters
Screen-based filters are commonly used for various applications, including marine water filters. These filters use a fine mesh screen to remove water, oil, and air contaminants. Screen-based filters are often mounted in duplex systems. The working mesh is the part of the filter that filters out the tiniest particles, while the protective screen protects it from damage and wear. Cleaning the filter screen depends on its design, but most filters include periodic cleaning schedules.
These filters effectively reduce the turbidity level of a marine water filter. They have a low head loss but may need to be modified for the best filtration performance. A combination of different systems is required for the most efficient results. For example, screen-based filters are often combined with a hydro cyclone system for ballast water treatment. Hydro-clone systems are inexpensive and easy to install and operate. They also utilize flocculation, a process that helps to remove microscopic particles from the water.
