Membrane-based water, wastewater treatment market to double, says report

US-based market research and analysis firm Frost & Sullivan said that the membrane-based water and wastewater treatment market is fast gaining ground as an efficient solution for water purification and filtration needs.

The firm in its new report, called ‘CEO 360 Degree Perspective on the Global Membrane-based Water and Wastewater Treatment Market’, said that the market recorded a revenue of $5.54bn in 2012 and is estimated to reach $12.07bn in 2020.

The membrane-based water and wastewater treatment markets in Asia-Pacific, the US and Europe are expected to hold a strong market position.

Particularly in Asia-Pacific, the market is anticipated to see strong growth due to rapid industrialisation and rise in population.

Frost & Sullivan Energy and Environmental Industry analyst Paulina Szyplinska said new water treatment systems are adopting an all-membrane approach to focus on water purity, wastewater reuse and recycling, in line with strict environmental legislations.

"Municipal and industrial applications, especially desalination plants, have embraced membrane treatment as the most reliable technology for water and wastewater treatment," Szyplinska added.

"Membrane technology consumers are now turning their attention to customised membrane technologies. Therefore, companies employing product differentiation strategies will find themselves better positioned to address challenges and boost market share."

The report said that membrane technologies are often considered expensive and are only used for problematic applications.

According to the report, high costs are related to the energy-intensive nature of the membrane technologies and hence low-pressure membranes that consume less energy and provide high-quality treatment are a popular choice.

Customers also look out for easy operation and maintenance, compliance with industry standards, longer life span, affordability and wider application possibilities.

"Membrane technology consumers are now turning their attention to customised membrane technologies," Szyplinska added.

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Image: The report said that the membrane-based water and wastewater treatment market will double its revenue by 2020. Photo courtesy of Rama.