π = i·M·R·T (osmotic pressure, van 't Hoff)
ΔP_applied > π ⇒ net flow through membrane
Q_fresh ∝ P_available / P_required(salinity)
Reverse osmosis forces seawater through a semi-permeable membrane at pressure exceeding the solution's natural osmotic pressure, pushing pure water through while rejecting salt ions as concentrated brine. A decentralized unit runs this pump directly off local solar panels and a wind turbine, so output depends on real-time renewable power availability rather than the grid.
- Solar irradiance — drives the solar panel's power output, which powers the RO high-pressure pump.
- Wind speed — drives the turbine's power output (cubic in wind speed, per real turbine physics).
- Feed salinity — higher salinity raises the required osmotic pressure, demanding more pump power per litre produced.
- Membrane flow — toggles visible particles showing purified water passing through vs. brine rejected.
Real-world application: off-grid, solar/wind-powered RO units are deployed in coastal communities and disaster relief to provide potable water without diesel generators.