NERI Seminar Series by
Professor Harvey Winters on 14 August 2026

NERI was delighted to host a seminar on the afternoon of 14 August 2026, featuring Prof. Harvey Winters from Fairleigh Dickinson University, USA. A highly respected expert in membrane fouling, particularly in seawater reverse osmosis (SWRO) desalination, Prof. Winters shared his deep expertise with the audience. The session was chaired by Prof. Tang Chuyang, Director of NERI.

Prof. Winters presented his work titled “Use of Brine-Staging in Seawater RO to Achieve Lowest SEC and Control Membrane Biofouling”, conducted jointly with Mr. Eli Oklejas from FEDCO, USA.

The seminar offered valuable insights into an innovative approach to seawater reverse osmosis, addressing two of the field’s most pressing challenges: energy consumption and membrane biofouling. Prof. Winters explained how brine-staging, when combined with bi-turbo technology, can enable higher recovery rates while keeping each stage below critical recovery and concentration polarization thresholds. This approach helps to reduce biofilm formation and improve overall energy efficiency.

This promising advancement points to a more efficient and sustainable pathway for SWRO operations.

NERI extends its sincere appreciation to Prof. Winters for his insightful presentation, and to all attendees for contributing to an engaging and fruitful discussion.