Tag Archives: brine valorization

Zero Liquid Discharge and Brine Valorization in Seawater Desalination: Perspectives for the MENA Region

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Abstract The expansion of seawater desalination has significantly increased global brine production, exceeding 140 million m³/day, with more than half generated in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region [1]. Brine disposal poses environmental and economic challenges, particularly in semi-enclosed marine systems. Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) and brine valorization strategies aim to eliminate liquid effluent while recovering water and valuable minerals. This study analyzes current ZLD configurations, mineral recovery pathways, and techno-economic constraints. Particular attention is given to the Saudi Arabian national strategy as a leading example of industrial-scale brine mining. The findings indicate that hybrid membrane–thermal systems combined … Continue reading →

Desalination as an Integrated Water–Energy–Material System in Water-Stressed Regions

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Water scarcity has become a structural constraint for sustainable development in arid and semi-arid regions. In North Africa, declining renewable water availability, recurrent droughts, population growth and agricultural demand have pushed conventional water resources beyond their renewal capacity. As a result, seawater desalination has evolved from an emergency response to a strategic infrastructure for national water security. However, the rapid expansion of desalination systems has revealed systemic challenges extending beyond water production. Energy consumption, membrane fouling, chemical use, brine discharge and environmental impacts increasingly determine the sustainability and social acceptability of desalination. At the same time, desalination brine—traditionally considered a … Continue reading →