DRDO Unveils Advanced Polymeric Membrane for Sea Water Desalination, Boosting Indigenous Naval Capabilities
Kanpur/New Delhi, May 15: In a remarkable stride toward self-reliance in defense technology, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully developed an advanced high-pressure polymeric membrane specifically designed for sea water desalination. This innovation is poised to enhance water purification systems aboard Indian Coast Guard (ICG) vessels and may eventually benefit coastal communities as well.
Developed by the Defence Materials Stores Research and Development Establishment (DMSRDE) in Kanpur, the multilayered nanoporous membrane was designed in just eight months to meet the operational needs of the Coast Guard. A key challenge addressed during its development was ensuring stability in harsh saline environments, particularly resistance to chloride ion-induced degradation.
The newly developed membrane underwent initial testing in an existing desalination unit installed on an Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) of the ICG. These early-stage trials confirmed the membrane’s safety and effectiveness. Final clearance for operational deployment will be granted after it completes 500 hours of on-board testing.
The ongoing testing phase aims to validate its long-term reliability under real-world maritime conditions. Once finalized, the membrane could also be adapted for use in civilian applications, particularly in coastal regions where access to fresh water is limited.
This development aligns with the goals of the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative, emphasizing indigenous innovation to meet critical national requirements. With this technology, DRDO continues to reinforce India’s capability to design and deploy advanced materials for both military and civilian use.
