Advancing salinity management through applied science and regional collaboration
Over the years, SCSC has supported a range of applied research projects that address salinity challenges across the region. Recent projects include:
OCWD Flow-Reversal RO Pilot Study (2023)
This 18-month study was conducted by the Orange County Water District at its Groundwater Replenishment System in Fountain Valley, California. It tested whether flow-reversal reverse osmosis, an innovation on conventional RO, could increase water recovery and reduce brine discharge in potable reuse applications. The process periodically reverses the direction of flow through RO membranes, which reduces scaling and allows higher recovery rates.
🔗 Link to Report: OCWD Flow Reversal RO Final Report 08.2023.pdf
Evaluation of Water Quality of Concentrates for Direct Ocean Discharge (2024)
This study was conducted by the Los Angeles County Sanitation Districts. It examined whether RO concentrates from multiple advanced treatment and desalination facilities could be safely discharged through the A.K. Warren Water Resource Facility’s ocean outfall in compliance with state and federal regulations.
🔗Link to Report: LACSD Ocean Discharge Technical Memo Final 04.29.2024.pdf
Development of an Enhanced Vacuum UV System for PFAS Destruction in Brine Concentrate (2025)
Sitao Liu, a PhD candidate in Chemical and Environmental Engineering at University of California, Riverside, is conducting research to develop an enhanced vacuum ultraviolet (VUV) system for the destruction of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in brine concentrate.
Liu is an SCSC-funded fellowship recipient for 2024-25.
🔗 Link to Video 1: Sitao Liu-NWRI.SCSC Report-Out #1.mp4
🔗 Link to Video 2: Sitao Liu-NWRI.SCSC Report-Out #2.mp4