Access to clean and drinkable water is becoming increasingly scarce in large portions of the Navajo Nation and other remote areas in the Southwest of the United States. Fortunately, a team of engineers from The University of Texas at Austin has taken up the challenge of addressing this problem head-on.
A Revolutionary Water Filtration Solution
Led by Professor Navid Saleh from the Fariborz Maseeh Department of Civil, Architectural, and Environmental Engineering, the research team has developed an innovative water filtration solution specifically tailored for the Navajo Nation. Their groundbreaking approach involves lining clay pots with pine tree resin, sourced from the local region, and incorporating tiny particles of silver-based compounds that effectively purify the water, making it safe for consumption.
Considering the Needs of the Community
The key to the success of this project lies not just in the technical innovation but in the thoughtful consideration of the community’s unique circumstances. To ensure the acceptance and adoption of the technology, the researchers collaborated closely with Deanna Tso, a third-generation potter from Arizona and co-author of the research paper. By incorporating the sacred art of pottery, which holds significant cultural value for the Navajo people, the team aimed to bridge the potential trust gap between the community and outsiders.
The simplicity of the water filtration device designed by the researchers is noteworthy. Users can easily pour water through the clay pots, and the specially coated pottery acts as a barrier, effectively removing harmful bacteria and impurities, resulting in clean and drinkable water. By utilizing local materials, collaborating with the community, and respecting the traditions of the Navajo Nation, the researchers have ensured the effectiveness of the solution.
A Unique Approach to Silver Filtration
While silver-based particles have been used for water filtration in the past, the research team’s novel contribution lies in controlling the release of nanoparticles, which can limit the longevity of the filters. An additional challenge arises from the interaction between the silver particles and certain chemicals present in untreated water, forming a detrimental “poison layer.” To address these issues, the researchers have employed pine tree resin, an abundant and locally available material, to prevent the uncontrolled release of silver particles during the purification process.
Cost-Effective and Scalable
One of the significant advantages of this water filtration solution is its affordability. The materials and construction process for the clay pots cost less than $10, making it a potentially low-cost solution for underserved communities. Moreover, the research team sees this project as a starting point for developing similar solutions for other communities around the world, using locally abundant materials and techniques to create access to clean drinking water.
The ongoing efforts of the research team extend beyond the Navajo Nation. Their next objective involves further developing the technology and exploring additional materials and techniques that can be used within various regional contexts, empowering communities to utilize their readily available resources to create fresh and drinkable water. While the researchers do not seek to commercialize their work, they enthusiastically aim to share their knowledge with potential partners who can help bring this innovative solution to more underserved parts of the world.
The research team from The University of Texas at Austin has demonstrated exceptional ingenuity in tackling the pressing issue of clean drinking water access. Through their collaboration with the Navajo community, use of local materials, and groundbreaking approach to silver filtration, they have developed a solution that is not only effective but also respectful of cultural traditions. By expanding their research and sharing their findings, they hope to make a lasting impact and improve the lives of communities facing similar water scarcity challenges worldwide.
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