Science is at its best when it can be translated into useful technologies to improve human wellbeing.
On the dawn of World Water Day (March 22) comes news from Auburn University where chemistry professor Dave Worley has used his research to develop an easily renewable water filtration system ideal for use in developing countries.
According to the Auburn University press release the filtration system, which uses the patented N-halamine technology, contains polystyrene beads that hold oxidative chlorine or bromine atoms for long periods of time.
To activate the filters, chlorinated or brominated water is passed through them to anchor the chlorine or bromine atoms to the beads. When untreated water with bacteria, mold or virus cells passes through the filter, the cells pick up the atoms which sink into the cell walls and kill them.
This cost-effective system, which is currently being tested in India, is easily renewed by simply running chlorinated or brominated water through the filters and shows a lot of promise for use in other developing countries.
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