|
Abstract
|
Water scarcity has become a serious problem due to global economic development, population growth, and environmental pollution, creating a huge demand for seawater desalination. An important component when converting seawater into fresh water is a membrane called reverse osmosis membrane. Toray was one of the first Japanese companies to get into the reverse osmosis membrane business, and the business is currently flourishing. However, although Toray’s reverse osmosis membranes are now attracting a lot of attention, it took a long time from the start of research to get the business going. This case explores how the company developed and commercialized reverse osmosis membranes during this long period.
|
