Taking salt out of the water equation

Summary

KAUST researchers have developed an ultrathin polymer-based membrane for water desalination with high water flux and salt rejection. The membrane utilizes two-dimensional porous carbonaceous materials with subnanometer-sized molecular transport channels. The membrane outperformed existing desalination systems using carbon nanotubes and graphene in forward and reverse osmosis. Why it matters: This innovation offers a promising alternative for efficient and cost-effective desalination, addressing critical water scarcity challenges in the region and beyond.