Why Desalination Needs Ozone — Especially In Texas

When planning a new desalination facility, particularly for complex water sources like the Texas Gulf Coast, successful operation hinges on pretreatment, not just the membrane technology. Seawater in this region presents significant challenges to Reverse Osmosis (RO) systems, including high organic loads, seasonal biofouling, and varying turbidity.

Implementing ozone-based oxidation early in the treatment train acts as a powerful gatekeeper, protecting downstream RO membranes. Ozone effectively reduces Total Organic Carbon (TOC) and inactivates biological contaminants—like algae and slime-forming organisms—which are primary drivers of membrane fouling. This robust pretreatment can drastically lower the frequency of membrane cleaning, reduce chemical usage, and extend the overall lifespan of the costly RO array. Prioritizing advanced oxidation is a critical strategy for ensuring operational efficiency, energy savings, and long-term resilience for large-scale water production projects. Learn how ozone integrates into seawater systems and discover the key design factors for successful implementation.