Innovations in Water Purification Technology
Over the years we’ve seen plenty of advances in water
purification and its impact on the environment and sustainability. Let’s take a
look at three of the more unique innovations in water purification.
Super Sand
In 1804, a Scotsman by the name of John Gibb built a device
that would strain water through grains of sand. His idea was that the sand
would allow the water to pass through but was dense enough to collect particles
that would otherwise contaminate the water. Fast forward to the 21st
century and scientists are developing ways to coat this “sand” with graphite
oxide which creates Super Sand. This specially formulated sand is capable of
straining more complex and toxic particles such as mercury. At this point,
scientists are working toward making Super Sand capable of absorbing even more
contaminants in order to make this a viable filtration system in developing
countries.
Water Desalination
Imagine being able to tap into the ocean to source drinking
water. That’s the goal of a team of scientists from the University of
Manchester. The process used to filter out the salt content from the water is
considered a “significant step forward” in the development of desalination
technology. Additionally, technology is being developed to use ultrasound waves
to, essentially, explode contaminated particles that will then evaporate.
Sun & Salt
Ok, so maybe this isn’t a “traditional” technological
advance in water purification. Nonetheless it is an interesting and simple one
that has far-reaching benefits. Joshua Pearce, an associate professor of
science and engineering at Michigan Technological University, developed a
process called flocculation where a
small amount of table salt is added to water to draw out the clay. Wait…clay?
Yes, the main problem with water that is collected in developing countries is
that it isn’t clear—and the only way the sun can help to purify water is if the
water is clear. By adding the salt to the water and drawing out the clay, clear
water is produced.
Check it out:
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