Process for separating dissolved somponents from a solution.

Abstract

The present invention relates to a process for separating dissolved components from a solution, said process comprising a) introducing a first solution into a solar pond and irradiating the solution with solar energy, such that temperature and concentration gradients are established, whereby the temperature and concentration of solute at the base of the pond is greater than the temperature and concentration of solute at the surface of the pond, b) introducing a portion of the first solution from the pond into a first osmosis unit, and contacting the portion with one side of a selectively permeable membrane, c) contacting the other side of the selectively permeable membrane with a second solution having a lower solute concentration than the portion of first solution from the pond, such that solvent from the second solution passes across the membrane to dilute and pressurise the portion of first solution, d) removing the diluted portion of first solution from the first osmosis unit, and e) using a pressure exchange system to transfer the pressure generated in the diluted portion of first solution to a solution of dissolved components, so as to drive the solution of dissolved components through a membrane to separate at least some of the dissolved components from the solution.