The LIFE WIRE project aims at demonstrating that a hybrid system based on UF/RO membranes and CNM filters can, if conveniently operated, provide different water qualities to fulfill the requirements of different industrial sectors.

The hybridization of these technologies and the various configurations available represent the innovative aspects of this project.

CNM thus provides complementary treatment for RO in point-of-use water reclamation when production of high quality water is required. The use of CNM and UF can be combined to provide high degree of disinfection and removal of organic carbon because the latter can remove high molecular weight compounds whilst the former presents high removal capacity towards smaller compounds. High removal of both organics and pathogens is an essential requirement for microbiological stabilization of reclaimed water to be reused.  The integration of CNM as pre-treatment for UF or RO has the potential of improving membrane performance by the reduction of fouling formation.

Owing to the abovementioned potential benefits resulting from the combinations based on UF, CNM and RO, it is of utmost importance to demonstrate at prototype scale, as it will be carried out under the LIFE WIRE project, their viability for upgrading reclaimed municipal wastewater for its reuse in industries that require different water qualities.