Clay pot filter

The clay pot filter purifies water by passing the water through pores in ceramic which has been fired in an open dung fire. These filters, intended to be suitable to developing countries, were developed by an Australian materials scientist and potter, Tony Flynn.

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Production

These filters are made from a suitable clay mixed with a fine-grained organic waste material such as coffee grounds, tea leaves or rice hulls. Coffee grounds have been found to give the best results. The filter is made in the shape of a cup, then fired without a kiln, using cow manure and a handful of grass and leaves. The organic matter is burnt away, leaving only silica remnant and tiny holes in the filter. As water passes through the tiny holes, it is purified.

Effectiveness

The filter has been found to remove 96.4 to 99.8% of E. Coli bacteria. No information is yet available on its effectiveness at removing viruses.

Origin

The filter was invented as a result of a World Vision project in the community of Manatuto, East Timor. The local clay was found to be too fine for water filters, but this was solved by adding organic matter.