DESIGN AND PROTOTYPE OF AN EASY-ACCESS PORTABLE WATER FILTRATION SYSTEM FOR HOUSEHOLD WASHING

Abstract

Access to relatively clean water for household use is increasingly problematic due to limited water supply. Existing filtration systems on the market are often prohibitively expensive and rely on materials that are not locally available. This study explores alternative and vernacular filtration materials. It involves modeling a filtration system to test substitute mediums for prototyping. Pre- and post-water sample testing was conducted to assess the water's color, turbidity, and pH levels. The Water Quality Guidelines and General Effluent Standards of 2016 served as the framework for these tests and results. The study found that a portable filtration system made from locally sourced materials can significantly improve access to clean (non-potable) water for households. Post-testing showed visibly cleaner water, and the water sample test results were favorable. The proposed filtration mediums in this study offer a more affordable solution due to the lower market value of the materials. This approach can also ideally address campus sustainability concerns by promoting responsible water consumption, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (UNSDG) 6 for 2030, which focuses on clean water and sanitation.