SBIR Fast-Track: Scaling Up Pressure-Driven Distillation for Ultrapure Water Production

NSF Award Search · 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT · $1,525,915 · view on nsf.gov ↗

Abstract

The broader commercial impact of this Small Business Innovation Research(SBIR) Fast-Track Phase I project is to improve the efficiency and reliability of water purification processes in advanced manufacturing, particularly in the semiconductor industry, while addressing the growing challenges of global water scarcity. Semiconductor fabrication requires large volumes of ultrapure water, which is produced using extensive filtration and chemical treatment to remove contaminants that can affect manufacturing yield and product reliability. Current methods, such as reverse osmosis, require significant pre- and post-treatment, increasing costs, energy consumption, and operational complexity. This project aims to develop a new membrane technology that uses applied pressure to induce distillation, allowing for the removal of difficult-to-filter contaminants while reducing the need for chemical additives and additional processing steps. In addition to benefiting semiconductor manufacturing, this technology has the potential to improve desalination and wastewater reuse, providing a more efficient and scalable solution for producing clean water in regions facing water shortages. By simplifying water purification, reducing energy consumption, and eliminating costly chemical treatments, this innovation could lower operating costs for industrial water users, support domestic semiconductor production, and help address critical water challenges worldwide. This project introduces a novel

Key facts

NSF award ID
2507823
Awardee
OSMOPURE TECHNOLOGIES, INC (CO)
SAM.gov UEI
H3CRRMR6LFS8
PI
Kian P Lopez
Primary program
01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
All programs
CAS-Critical Aspects of Sustainability, TECH FOR SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENT
Estimated total
$1,525,915
Funds obligated
$1,525,915
Transaction type
Cooperative Agreement
Period
09/01/2025 → 08/31/2028