What is the primary function of reverse osmosis (RO) in a biomass power plant's water treatment system?

The primary function of reverse osmosis (RO) in a biomass power plant's water treatment system is to remove dissolved solids, ions, and other impurities from the water, producing high-purity water suitable for use as boiler feedwater. Reverse osmosis is a membrane filtration process that uses pressure to force water through a semi-permeable membrane, which allows water molecules to pass through but blocks larger molecules and ions. This process effectively removes a wide range of contaminants, including dissolved salts (such as sodium chloride, calcium sulfate), minerals (such as silica), organic matter, and bacteria. The RO process results in two streams: permeate (the purified water that passes through the membrane) and concentrate (the water containing the rejected impurities). The permeate is then used as boiler feedwater, while the concentrate is typically sent to wastewater treatment. Using RO-treated water as boiler feedwater minimizes scaling, corrosion, and other problems that can occur in boiler systems due to impurities in the water. Scaling reduces heat transfer efficiency, while corrosion can damage boiler tubes and other components. By removing these impurities, RO helps to ensure the reliable and efficient operation of the boiler and reduces maintenance costs. In summary, RO's role is to produce high-quality water that protects the boiler system from damage and improves overall plant performance.