Reverse osmosis (RO) uses a semi-permeable membrane to extract salt and other impurities from water. Unlike traditional methods reliant on heat-induced evaporation, RO membranes filter water molecules without heat. LG Chem's RO membrane boasts a 99.89 percent salt removal rate.
Demand for RO membranes is high in Saudi Arabia due to its predominantly desert landscape. The Middle Eastern country relies on desalination for over 70 percent of its water supply.
"Together with Alkhorayef Group, we not only seek to meet the demands to localize RO membranes, but also look forward to delivering innovative solutions to contribute to the development of the water industry in the region, for the future of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia," said Hyung Hoon, Vice President at LG Chem. Alkhorayef specializes in various sectors including water treatment, energy, shipbuilding and defense.
LG Chem communications officials said the firm will transfer RO technology to Alkhorayef and jointly construct a production facility for RO membranes. Up to 320 million Saudi riyals ($86 million) will be invested in the RO plant set to begin operations in 2026.
LG Chem purifies about 1.86 billion tons across the world annually with RM technology. Assuming an average daily water requirement of 110 liters per person, this volume can adequately serve more than 46 million people.
In August 2023, the Korean firm earmarked 124.6 billion won for new investment to expand the production of reverse osmosis membranes at its plant in Cheongju, North Chungcheong Province. LG Chem aims to double its RO membrane capacity by 2028.
