Scientists from the North Caucasus Federal University (NCFU) in Russia have developed and patented an innovative method for water purification and disinfection, specifically designed for field conditions. This technology effectively reduces water hardness and eliminates harmful fungi and bacteria that pose health risks.
Previously, water purification from microorganisms involved bactericidal filters made of porous polymer materials modified with nanoparticles. However, as NCFU researchers explain, such systems have several drawbacks.
Prior solutions utilized polyethylene filters with silver and copper nanoparticles as antimicrobial agents. The main issues with these systems were their high cost and the need for regular replacement or laborious cleaning due to contamination.
A New Approach to Water Treatment
NCFU`s new development offers a significantly simpler and more cost-effective method for producing potable water from various sources, including wells, boreholes, or rivers, without requiring complex and continuously maintained equipment. Professor Nikolai Stoyanov from NCFU`s Institute of Advanced Engineering emphasized that this solution is ideal for field use.
The purification process involves passing water through an electrodialyzer equipped with a semi-permeable membrane, for instance, made of tarpaulin. During the electrochemical reaction, sodium hypochlorite is generated, which, along with the action of an electric field, ensures effective disinfection of the water flow.
Nikolai Stoyanov further explained that this reagent not only destroys existing microorganisms but also prevents their secondary proliferation. Additionally, the electrochemical process facilitates the precipitation of calcium and magnesium ions, allowing for their easy removal and achieving optimal water hardness.
Enhanced Taste and Versatile Application
To enhance the taste, the water is then passed through marble or dolomite chips, transforming it from a bitter-saline taste to a slightly sweet one. Stoyanov highlighted the device`s versatility, suitable for both individual household water supply and for creating local networks serving multiple homes or even streets.
The developed water treatment scheme has demonstrated high economic efficiency, requiring only 1.2 kWh of electricity to process one cubic meter of water. The system can be powered by both mains electricity and autonomous sources such as car batteries or solar panels, making it particularly suitable for remote or unstable power supply areas.
Rupert Blackwood 
Clement Ashworth