Reverse osmosis (often abbreviated as RO) is a water filtration technique that helps remove impurities from water by pushing it through a semipermeable membrane. This process is frequently used in water filtration machines, many of which can be found on street corners and in residential areas throughout Thailand.
These machines are a convenient source of drinking water for locals and travelers alike, but how do they actually work, and are they safe to use? Below, we will delve deeper into the concept of reverse osmosis, compare it with the natural phenomenon of osmose (osmosis), and look at how these machines function and what considerations you should keep in mind when using them.
Understanding Osmosis vs. Reverse Osmosis
Before explaining reverse osmosis, it’s helpful to understand the simpler process of osmosis. In osmosis, water naturally moves from a region with a lower concentration of dissolved substances (like salts or impurities) to a region with a higher concentration, through a semipermeable membrane. This membrane allows water molecules to pass while blocking larger particles or molecules. Osmosis is driven by the desire to balance concentrations on both sides of the membrane.
Read more: What Is Reverse Osmosis and Why Is It Relevant When Traveling to Thailand?