2024 Trends in Water Treatment: What Should Companies Know?

Global Overview:

2024 marks a turning point in the water industry, driven by stricter regulations (e.g., PFAS limits in the EU) and advances in AI. We analyze the 5 trends that will redefine the industry:

Antifouling Technology for Membranes: New graphene and nanoceramic coatings reduce the adhesion of bacteria and minerals on RO membranes, extending their lifetime from 3 to 7 years. Companies such as Dow Chemical are already testing these materials in pilot plants.

Generative AI in Process Optimization: Platforms like AquaGPT analyze historical data to predict failures, adjust chemical dosages and suggest improvements in real time. Example: A plant in Singapore reduced the use of antiscalants by 25% through AI recommendations.

Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) 2.0:

Hybrid systems (evaporation + crystallization) achieve ZDL with 40% less energy. Case Study: A pharmaceutical company in Switzerland treats 500 m³/day without generating waste, recovering salts for resale.

PFAS removal with Advanced Nanofiltration: Adjustable molecular size membranes capture PFASs and microplastics, even at ppt (parts per billion) concentrations. The EPA already requires this level in the U.S. by 2025.