This paper presents a review of recent advances in reverse osmosis technology as related to the major issues of concern in this rapidly growing desalination method. These issues include membrane fouling studies and control techniques, membrane characterization methods as well as applications to different water types and constituents present in the feed water. A summary of the major advances in RO performance and mechanism modeling is also presented and available transport models are introduced. Moreover, the two important issues of RO brine discharge and energy costs and recovery methods are discussed. Finally, future research trends and needs relevant to RO are highlighted. (C) 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.