Saltworks’ SelectNF Nanofiltration Technology Penetrates Advanced Separation Applications

February 17, 2026

Saltworks Technologies is advancing its SelectNF nanofiltration platform as rapid improvements in membrane design and system engineering create new opportunities for industrial water treatment, resource recovery, and critical minerals processing. Rising demand for water reuse and lithium refining is driving increased interest in modern nanofiltration, which now offers separation capabilities that were previously out of reach.

Nanofiltration has traditionally been known for separating monovalent and multivalent ions, particularly sulfates, but recent technical advancements are unlocking new treatment opportunities. Previous concerns about managing NF brine can be minimized thanks to the breakthroughs in membrane technology and system design.

New membrane classes and system configurations can operate at higher pressures, including up to 1800 psi with specialized materials. These advancements open new frontiers related to brine minimization, chemical-free softening, ultra-high recovery membrane systems, valuable ion recovery, and selective contaminant removal. Saltworks invested in building advanced NF capabilities and developed extensive data sets calibrated to test data.

SelectNF applies standard or specialty NF membranes, higher-pressure operation, and a repeatable but flexible skid design. Saltworks process experts use real performance data to tune membrane choice, pH, pressure, and flux to achieve separations that conventional technologies cannot deliver. Recent projects with industrial clients demonstrate how far modern NF has come and why forward‑looking operators are acting on these capabilities.

The system can also be partnered with reverse osmosis to enhance overall system economics. Pairing NF with RO enables chemical-free softening, selective contaminant removal, critical mineral recovery, and improved performance of membrane brine concentrators. This integrated approach opens treatment pathways that were previously impractical or cost-prohibitive.

SelectNF is delivered on Saltworks standardized modular UniRO architecture, shared across XtremeRO and FusionRO. The core mechanical platform remains consistent, while pressure class, membrane selection, and operational tuning vary by application. Intelligent automation manages self‑diagnosis, cleaning routines, and capacity control to maintain plant reliability and reduce operator involvement.

Saltworks' standardized UniRO architecture

Engineering advanced NF systems requires thoughtful consideration and data‑driven insights to configure SelectNF for peak economic performance. While SelectNF is not the correct fit for every wastewater chemistry, its recent advancements are opening new opportunities across industries that require precise ion control.

Contact Saltworks expert engineering team to determine whether SelectNF is the right solution for your facility’s resource recovery, softening, or selective separation needs.

About Saltworks

Saltworks Technologies is a leader in the development and delivery of solutions for industrial wastewater treatment and lithium refining. By working with customers to understand their unique challenges and focusing on continuous innovation, Saltworks’ solutions provide best-in-class performance and reliability. From its headquarters in Richmond, BC, Canada, Saltworks’ team designs, builds, and operates full-scale plants, and offers comprehensive onsite and offsite testing services with its fleet of mobile pilots.

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Photo of a Saltworks employee inspecting a full-scale XtremeRO skid.
Product

SelectNF (Tailored Nanofiltration)

Our SelectNF nanofiltration systems employ best-in-class NF membranes in unique process configurations to tailor monovalent/multivalent ion separation.  

Saltworks employee holding ZLD salts in-hand from a ZLD system
Application

Zero Liquid Discharge & Minimal Liquid Discharge

Our innovative brine management solutions maximize freshwater recovery and minimize waste products, reducing disposal costs. We optimize costs with the correct blend of membrane and evaporator crystallizer solutions.