Technologies Available for Treatment of Saline Water for Livestock Drinking: A Review

Water is an essential nutrient required for physiological and metabolic processes in livestock. However, in many arid and semi-arid regions, freshwater resources are scarce, and saline or brackish water becomes the only available source. Consumption of saline water can adversely affect livestock productivity and health. Desalination offers a solution by converting saline water into potable quality. This review explores the technologies available for desalination of saline water for livestock drinking, encompassing thermal, membrane-based, chemical, and renewable energy-assisted systems. Reverse osmosis (RO), electrodialysis (ED), multi-stage flash distillation (MSF), vapor compression distillation (VCD), and freeze desalination are examined in detail. Additionally, solar desalination and its potential for decentralized livestock farms is discussed. The review concludes by emphasizing the need for technology selection based on water quality, energy availability, scale of operation, and economic viability.