The simulation of semi-permeable membranes—osmosis, reverse osmosis and electro-osmosis in electrolyte solutions

Abstract We report computer simulations of semi-permeable membranes used to study electrolyte solutions undergoing osmosis, reverse osmosis, and electro-osmosis. The semi-permeable membrane, which is atomistic in nature, has been modeled using a novel technique developed by us recently. Our results show a rather significant role played by solvation forces, which cause the formation of large molecular clusters in both aqueous and non-aqueous solutions. In addition, we have found external electric fields make large molecular clusters less energetically favorable, and this results in a large measurable effect in the rate of osmosis or reverse osmosis.