What type of membranes should technicians expect to use when preparing for reverse osmosis?

Thin-film composite membranes are commonly used in reverse osmosis processes due to their high rejection rates and efficiency in removing dissolved solids, bacteria, and viruses from water. These membranes are composed of several layers: a thin film that's specifically designed to provide the optimal balance of permeability and selectivity. This structure allows for the effective separation of water from contaminants, making them ideal for treatment processes where pure water production is essential.

Thin-film composite membranes outperform earlier membrane types, such as cellulose acetate, which are less efficient for many applications and can be more sensitive to chemical processes. While chlorine-resistant polysulfone membranes are also used in some water treatment scenarios, thin-film composites are typically favored in reverse osmosis systems due to their advanced material properties and performance under various conditions.

Therefore, when preparing for reverse osmosis, the expectation of utilizing thin-film composite membranes is grounded in their widely recognized efficiency and reliability in water purification.