IBM creates new water filter membrane

IBM scientists say they’ve developed a more energy efficient membrane that filters salts as well as deadly toxins, such as arsenic, from water.

Company researchers said that with only approximately 2 percent of the world’s water supply usable and human demand for clean water expected to increase six-fold during the next 50 years, they have unveiled what the company says is its first smart water services and technologies project.

IBM says when contaminated water is forced through the membrane, salts and a number of toxins are filtered out and only pure drinking water flows through to the other side, company scientists said. The membrane is also potentially resistant to chlorine damage.

The membrane was developed by IBM scientists in collaboration with Central Glass of Japan, the King Abdul-aziz City for Science and Technology in Saudi Arabia and the University of Texas, Austin.