Quantifying analysis and expanding application of desalination energy recovery technology

The energy recovery device (ERD) represents the most crucial energy-saving equipment for the seawater reverse osmosis (SWRO) desalination. This review provides an exhaustive overview of currently ERDs, with a particular focus on a comparative analysis of the working principles, process characteristics and performance indicators of different types of ERDs which are classified according to the operating principle into modes of energy indirect conversion and energy direct conversion. Each type has different scope of application, conversion efficiency and technological advantages. The detailed account of innovative development of SWRO ERDs especially in China is summarized. A quantitative analysis of the discrepancy between China's efforts in the ERD field and the international advanced level. The research presents the significant potential of SWRO ERD technology in the field of industrial residual pressure energy, outlines its future applications and lists several illustrative case studies, such as wastewater recycling, zero emissions and the chemical industry, etc. It also outlines future research directions of ERD in the effective hydraulic design, friction sub-materials and optimization of the intervention process. The above research provides valuable guidance for the advancement of seawater desalination and other field using energy-saving technologies. • Performance comparisons of various ERDs are quantitative analysis. • The innovate development of ERD technology in China is provided. • The application prospect of recycling and utilization of residual pressure energy using ERD is introduced. • The innovative technology of ERDs in the industrial field of residual pressure energy recycling is proposed.