Developing Zeolite Ceramic Filters For Purifying Open Water Sources In Rural Communities
Abstract
Access to safe drinking water has been a challenge for most rural dwellers in Sub-Sahara Africa who rely on open water sources for their consumption and domestic activities. In attempt to purify water from these open water sources, this study looked at producing zeolite from kaolin with NaOH concentrations through crystallization process, develop ceramic candle filters and subsequent zeolite filter unit to purify unsafe water. Two procedures were used for the synthesis; pre-treatment or thermal activation of the kaolin at 6500C to get a dehydroxylated product called metakaolin and hydrothermal reaction of metakaolin in alkaline solutions for crystallization of the zeolite. The effect of the zeolite ceramic filter on the users was enormous. Results showed that properties such as turbidity removal, flow rate and coliform removal were within WHO standard after the purification. A pilot study of the zeolite ceramic filter showed improved health standards such as fewer diarrhea, nausea, cramps, vomiting and good skin growth.
