SpectroMarine: advancing real-time water quality monitoring to mitigate biofouling in desalination plants

Membrane biofouling is one of the most persistent challenges faced by desalination plants, particularly those utilizing reverse osmosis (RO) technology. Addressing this issue is crucial to reduce maintenance costs, improve efficiency, and extend the lifespan of membranes. This study introduces SpectroMarine, an advanced optical water quality sensor that provides real-time data on organic content and biomass levels, enabling desalination operators to take proactive measures for key water quality parameters such as chlorophyll, total organic carbon and oxidization agent to prevent biofouling. The sensor combines fluorescence and absorption spectroscopy with Internet of Things (IoT) integration, offering immediate analytics and actionable insights. Field tests demonstrated significant potential for reducing operational costs, reducing energy consumption, and optimizing chemical use according to the water quality, ultimately enhancing plant performance. This paper discusses the sensor’s design, application, and outcomes, providing a roadmap for revolutionizing water quality monitoring in desalination plants.