DRDO develops indigenous polymeric membrane for seawater desalination

In a major boost to self-reliant defence technology, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully developed an indigenous nanoporous multilayered polymeric membrane tailored for high-pressure seawater desalination.

The breakthrough comes from DRDO’s Kanpur-based laboratory, the Defence Materials Stores and Research & Development Establishment (DMSRDE), which designed the membrane to meet the Indian Coast Guard’s (ICG) specific operational needs. The innovation addresses a critical challenge in maritime operations—ensuring stability of desalination systems exposed to high levels of chloride ions in saline environments.

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Remarkably, the development was completed within just eight months. Initial technical trials were conducted in an existing desalination unit aboard an Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) of the ICG. The results from safety and performance assessments of the polymeric membrane were deemed fully satisfactory.

Currently, the membrane is undergoing extended testing and trial operations on board the OPV. The Indian Coast Guard is expected to grant final operational clearance following 500 hours of continuous operational testing.

This indigenous solution holds promise not only for defence applications but also for desalination in coastal regions, subject to minor adaptations. The innovation aligns with the national vision of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’, showcasing DRDO’s commitment to developing homegrown, high-performance technologies that strengthen India's strategic and civilian infrastructure.