Autonomous Advanced Water Purification System Driven by Waste Heat

This invention is an autonomous, energy-efficient, and containerized system that produces two separate high-quality water products, one for non-potable use, such as in agriculture, and the other for potable use. The system utilizes waste heat as its primary energy source and combines membrane bioreactors and membrane distillation technologies.

Background: 
Water purification systems are essential for providing clean, safe water for drinking, agriculture, and industrial use. Among advanced technologies, membrane bioreactors and membrane distillation have gained attention for their efficiency and versatility. Membrane bioreactors combine conventional biological treatment with membrane filtration, producing high-quality effluent by removing both solids and microorganisms. Membrane distillation, on the other hand, is a thermally driven process where water vapor passes through a hydrophobic membrane, leaving non-volatile impurities behind. Both technologies represent significant advancements in the push for sustainable and energy-efficient water purification.

Applications: 

• Water purification systems
• Municipal wastewater reuse
• Remote/off-grid water treatment
• Hospital wastewater treatment
• Desalination management

Advantages: 

• High effluent quality
• Smaller footprint
• Increased sludge concentration
• Less excess sludge waste
• Autonomous, energy-efficient system
• Creates water for both potable and non-potable uses
• Uses waste heat as primary energy source