100 + INNOVATIONS
Graphene Oxide Membranes for Natural Organic Matter( NOM) Removal from Water
Delivering safe drinking water with new membrane technology for real-world applications
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Research Project
Prototype developed
Challenge
Natural organic matter( NOM) in drinking water creates compliance and cost pressures for utilities. Current treatment options are capital-intensive and inefficient. Graphene oxide membranes provide a durable, low-pressure alternative that integrates with existing systems. With industry partners preparing for pilot trials, this innovation is moving closer to real-world deployment.
Solution
In partnership with Sydney Water, the team co-patented a unique process for crosslinking tunable graphene oxide membranes. These ultra-thin membranes deliver high water flow while removing more than 99 % of natural organic matter at pressures below two atmospheres. Designed for durability, they withstand standard industrial backwash cleaning and can be integrated into existing treatment systems.
With strong industry backing, the technology is now being prepared for pilot-scale demonstration.
Target customers / end-users
• municipal water authorities: ensure safe, compliant drinking water through effective NOM removal
• industry: low-pressure technology suited to existing treatment plants
• Communities: reliable access co cleaner and safer water supplies.
Progress
• partnerships: co-patented with Sydney Water, demonstrating strong industry collaboration
• validation: lab testing achieved > 99 % NOM removal with high flux at < 2 atm
• pipeline: industry partner advancing pilot-scale manufacturing.
TRL 6
Enable healthy lives
Climate & Clean Energy
This project addresses the problem of natural organic matter in drinking water, which can create harmful by-products. The team developed graphene oxide membranes which remove these contaminants at low pressures, using less energy than conventional methods. With strong backing from industry, the technology is now moving towards pilot-scale trials.
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