Summary
Membrane technology has been efficient separation ability of substances in a solution. A specific molecule can be separated from a solution through the ultrafiltration membrane only by pressurizing the solution. Concentration of a solute is also realized using the reverse osmosis membrane without heating. This paper is to explore a possibility of applications of the membrane technology to reduce the environmental problem caused by protected cultivation.HomePage
After a brief explanation of the membrane technology, past research and application in agriculture are summarized. It is clear that only a few investigations to apply the membrane technology to horticulture have been reported. A regulation of fertilizers and pesticides in ground water is going to start in the near future in Japan, because the increase in the concentration of pollutants in ground water is strongly concerned. In horticulture as well as agriculture , the discharge of water, fertilizers and pesticides should be restricted and they should be recycled. The authors suggest that the membrane, especially nanofiltration membrane, is one of the important technologies in order to recycle water and nutrients in hydroponics.Keywords: membrane, filtration, nanofiltration, protected horticulture, hydroponics, environment