Development of ceramic water filter using nanguyudan red clay and carbonized sawdust / Giezel Keith L. Faylogna

UTHESIS (Bachelor of Science in Ceramic Engineering)

Bibliography : leaves 55-57

Access to safe and clean water is a fundamental human right, yet millions
around the world are deprived of this necessity due to contamination particularly in
regions prone to natural disasters like the Philippines. This thesis addresses the
critical issue of water contamination by investigating the effectivity of ceramic water
filters (CWFs) as a sustainable and affordable solution. Utilizing locally available raw
materials such as Nanguyudan red clay and carbonized sawdust, CWFs were
fabricated and tested for their ability to filter microbial contaminants, specifically
Escherichia coli (E. coli) and coliform bacteria. The study employed a research and
development of CWF through the involvement of experimental research to evaluate
physical properties of the CWF, filtration property, and tested microbiological water
analyses to evaluate their effectiveness in removing bacteria. Results demonstrate that
CWFs composed of 20% carbonized sawdust (with ≤45μm and ≤75μm particle sizes)
and 80% red clay, fired at 950°C, effectively removed E. coli and coliform bacteria,
highlighting their potential as low-cost purification methods. Recommendations
include optimizing compaction during fabrication and increasing filter thickness to
enhance structural integrity and water flow rate. This research contributes to the
advancement of affordable and sustainable water purification, vital for improving
public health and ensuring access to safe drinking water.