Abstract: An apparatus for generating useful energy includes a first chamber containing a draw solution which includes an osmotic agent and a second chamber containing a feed solution. A semi-permeable membrane allows the feed solution to move thereacross by osmosis, from the second chamber to the first chamber, to form a diluted draw solution. Pressurizing means apply a pressure to the diluted draw solution in the first chamber. Energy conversion means convert mechanical energy in the diluted draw solution, which is generated by osmotic movement of the feed solution across the semi-permeable membrane, into useful, electrical energy. The osmotic agent includes particles in the range of 0.5 nm-5 mm and the semi-permeable membrane has pores with diameters that are no larger than the diameter of the particles, thereby improving the amount of power or useful energy generated by the apparatus. There is further provided a corresponding method of generating power or useful energy.

Abstract: An apparatus for generating useful energy includes a first chamber containing a draw solution which includes an osmotic agent and a second chamber containing a feed solution. A semi-permeable membrane allows the feed solution to move thereacross by osmosis, from the second chamber to the first chamber, to form a diluted draw solution. Pressurizing means apply a pressure to the diluted draw solution in the first chamber. Energy conversion means convert mechanical energy in the diluted draw solution, which is generated by osmotic movement of the feed solution across the semi-permeable membrane, into useful, electrical energy. The osmotic agent includes particles in the range of 0.5 nm-5 mm and the semi-permeable membrane has pores with diameters that are no larger than the diameter of the particles, thereby improving the amount of power or useful energy generated by the apparatus. There is further provided a corresponding method of generating power or useful energy.