The develop of a forward osmosis membrane (FO membrane) for osmotic pressure power generation using high salt concentration geothermal water

TOYOBO CO., LTD.

Outline

We aim to develop a forward osmosis membrane (FO membrane) for osmotic pressure power generation using high salt concentration geothermal water, renewable energy which is getting attention recently, bring it to practical application in power plants in Europe, and enhance dissemination of the FO membrane.

Geothermal water osmotic pressure power generation utilizes high osmotic pressure of high salt concentration geothermal water pumped up from underground. Compared with solar and wind power, this is one of renewable energy not affected by weather and hours of daylight. We are planning to use our FO membrane as a key component. By cooperating with European companies, demonstration experiments have been conducted in a pilot plant of osmotic power generation since September 2018. For the future, we are planning to bring it to practical application in another osmotic power generation plant with higher output, and widely disseminate our membrane.

Description

1. Achievement target for the challenge
• By the fiscal year 2021, launch of practical plant with output class of 1 MW
• By the fiscal year 2025, launch of multiple practical plants with output class of 1 MW or over
• Before practical application, achievement of superior CAPEX and OPEX compared to wind and solar power

2. Issues to be solved to overcome the challenge
• Development of operating conditions that enable long-term stable operation
• Optimization of the system that contains FO membrane, turbine, pump and other components

3. Our concrete actions
• Development of an FO membrane that has high power generation efficiency, pressure resistance and stability

4. Quantitative effects
• CO2 emission reduced by a 1 MW output class plant of geothermal water osmotic pressure power generation is 7,200 t−CO2/year, compared with that of a coal-fueled power plant.