Researchers from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) have developed what they say is an inexpensive, portable desalination system to turn salt water into drinking water. The scheme won a USAID competition—2015 Desal Prize—in the process.

MIT and Jain Irrigation Systems have developed a cost-effective, environmentally sustainable and energy-efficient system. Source: MIT, Credit image: Christine DaniloffMIT and Jain Irrigation Systems have developed a cost-effective, environmentally sustainable and energy-efficient system. Source: MIT, Credit image: Christine DaniloffMIT teamed up with U.S.-based Jain Irrigation Systems to build a cost-effective, environmentally sustainable and energy-efficient system.

The device works by using solar panels to charge a cache of batteries that powers an electrodialysis machine, removing salt from the water and making it safe to drink.

"Both electrodialysis and reverse osmosis require the use of membranes, but those in an electrodialysis system are exposed to lower pressures and can be cleared of salt buildup simply by reversing the electrical polarity,” says MIT team member and mechanical engineer, Amos Winter. “That means the expensive membranes should last much longer and require less maintenance,” she adds.

MIT’s system reportedly can turn 90% of the salt water it is fed into drinking water. This compares to the 40-60% from reverse osmosis systems.

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