目前，已有或正在开发大约100个最高污染物水平，应在1995年到位。消毒、过滤和腐蚀控制也有主要的处理技术要求。膜可以同时去除各种受管制和不受管制的污染物，从而获得安全、美观的饮用水。新型膜还为多种污染情况提供了一种经济高效的解决方案，如微生物、消毒副产物以及大多数有机和无机化学污染物。膜法的主要问题是以合理的成本处理废品。这一主题以及研究需求被非常简要地勾勒出来。

Currently, there are in place or under development approximately one hundred maximum contaminant levels which should be in place by 1995. There are also major treatment technique requirements for disinfection, filtration and corrosion control. Membranes offer the potential for simultaneously removing a variety of regulated and unregulated contaminants resulting in safe and aesthetically pleasing drinking water. Newer membranes also offer a cost-effective solution to multiple contaminant situations like microbials, disinfection by- products and most organic and inorganic chemical contaminants. The major concern with membrane processes is disposal of the reject waste at reasonable cost. This theme along with research needs are very briefly sketched.