Reverse‐Osmosis (RO) desalination is under development at the David W. Taylor Naval Ship Research and Development Center to provide a low power, reliable, minimum weight and volume source of freshwater for nonsteam‐powered ship. Investigations of reverse‐osmosis systems and components conducted at a seawater test site have demonstrated significant progress in extending membrane life and system performance through improved prefiltration and water pretreatment techniques. Water pretreatment methods evaluated included chlorination, utrafiltration, cartridge filtration, flocculation, and diatomaceous earth filtration. Operating experience with a 2,000 gal/day RO unit installed aboard MONOB (YAG‐61) is discussed. Future plans include the development of a 12,000 gal/day system suitable for installation aboard combatant ships. © 1979 American Society of Naval Engineers
