DRDO Develops Indigenous Polymeric Membrane for Desalination

In a significant stride towards technological self-reliance, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), through its Kanpur-based lab DMSRDE, has successfully developed a high-pressure nanoporous multilayered polymeric membrane for sea water desalination. The innovation caters to operational requirements of the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and has already passed initial technical trials onboard an Offshore Patrolling Vessel (OPV).

Why in News?

The news is significant as it showcases India’s growing capability in indigenous defence and marine technology. The development was achieved in a record time of eight months, and trials have proven the system’s safety and performance. This aligns with the government’s vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and strengthens maritime infrastructure.

Key Highlights

• Developer: DMSRDE, Kanpur (a DRDO lab)
• Purpose: High-pressure sea water desalination
• Beneficiary: Indian Coast Guard (ICG)
• Membrane Type: Nanoporous multilayered polymeric membrane
• Development Time: Completed in 8 months
• Trial Status: Successfully tested onboard ICG’s Offshore Patrolling Vessel
• Next Step: Awaiting final operational clearance after 500 hours of testing

Objective

• To provide an indigenous, stable, and efficient solution for desalination on marine vessels, especially suitable for Indian defence operations exposed to high salinity environments.

Background

• Desalination is vital for fresh water supply in maritime regions.
• Imported systems pose cost and maintenance issues.
• DRDO aimed to develop a chloride-resistant membrane tailored to Indian coastal conditions.

Significance

• A leap forward in defence materials technology
• Enhances maritime self-sufficiency
• Supports Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative
• Potential for civilian coastal applications in future

About DRDO

• Research wing of the Ministry of Defence
• Headquarters: New Delhi
• Network: 41 laboratories + 5 DRDO Young Scientist Labs (DYSLs)
• Major projects: Agni, Prithvi, Tejas, Pinaka, Akash, Radars, and EW Systems

Summary/Static	Details
Why in the news?	DRDO Develops Indigenous Polymeric Membrane for Desalination
Developer	DMSRDE, DRDO (Kanpur)
Technology	High-pressure nanoporous polymeric membrane
Use	Desalination on Indian Coast Guard vessels
Development	Duration 8 months
Initial Trials	Completed successfully on OPV
Awaited Outcome	Final clearance post 500-hour operational test
Alignment with National Goals	Aatmanirbhar Bharat, Defence Indigenization