Comparison of low-cost personal filter solutions

Linda Stamm from the FHNW compared personal filter solutions in a bachelor thesis carried out at the ANNA University. Literature data on the water situation in and around Chennai were analysed. Water samples were collected in wells near the Arani River check dam. Water quality parameters such as pH, EC, DO and ORP were measured to verify the suitability of the well water for drinking and irrigation and a presence/absence test for coliform and E. coli bacterial contamination was performed. An inexpensive water filter was constructed from saree fabric, PET bottles, sand and stones and its’ efficiency of removal of coliform pollutants compared to a commercially available low cost Terafil®™water filter.