Forward Osmosis

Abstract Engineered osmosis (EO) is an emerging membrane separations platform capable of purifying water, dewatering solutions, or generating power. An osmotic agent, or draw solution, is used to drive water by osmosis across a membrane. This flow is then harnessed for purification or power generation. This chapter offers an overview of the EO platform technology through discussion of its promised benefits, its challenges, and its role in the future of membrane separations.