Abstract: The development of reverse osmosis (RO) membrane used for sea water desalination was reviewed, the membrane module and materials were also summarized. The traditional materials were based on inorganic, inorganic hybrid composite and organic materials, and the advanced materials included carbon nanotubes, molecular sieves, and graphenes. The international manufacturers of RO membrane were briefly introduced. A future prospect of sea water desalination was given.

Key words: Reverse Osmosis Membranes, Desalination, composite membrane, development status