Published Paper Details:

Safe drinking water is vital to health. Although most people in the world have access to safe drinking water, as many as 663 million people still drink from untreated springs and groundwater sources, most living in remote rural areas. The scarcity of safe drinking water remains a serious problem in rural areas. In particular, groundwater pollution is caused by heavy metals, which are extremely harmful to human health due to their persistent, bio-accumulative, and hazardous nature. The scarcity of clean drinking water is a critical issue, driving the need for innovative, cost-effective, and efficient water purification solutions. This research focuses on developing an affordable, multi-functional clay-based ceramic filter matrix to treat drinking water. The proposed filter leverages the natural properties of clay, combined with other locally available materials, to create a porous matrix capable of removing pathogens, turbidity, and chemical contaminants. The fabrication process involves carefully selecting and preparing clay, mixing it with granulated carbon, molding it into desired shapes, and firing at controlled temperatures to achieve optimal porosity and structural integrity. The addition of granulated carbon is intended to improve the removal of contaminants such as organic compounds, chlorine, and heavy metals, thereby addressing microbial and chemical impurities. The resulting ceramic matrix provides physical filtration and incorporates antimicrobial and adsorptive functionalities, making it a versatile solution for various water quality challenges. Laboratory tests demonstrate that the clay-based ceramic filter can significantly reduce microbial contamination, remove suspended particles, and adsorb harmful chemicals, ensuring safe drinking water. Additionally, the low cost of production and the use of readily available materials make this technology accessible to low-income communities, particularly in rural areas. This study underscores the potential of clay-based ceramic filters as a sustainable and scalable solution for improving water quality, contributing to public health, and supporting the global effort to provide safe drinking water for all.