Design and Optimization of Biochar-Based Water Filters for Rural Drinking Water Purification

Abstract

This paper examines the development and improvement of water filters using biochar for drinking water in rural communities. The aim is to design an economically viable and environmentally friendly purification system that is able to handle various forms of contaminants, including microbial pathogens, troublesome turbidity, and select heavy metals. The approach taken includes various methods of producing biochar, such as the type of feedstock, production temperature using pyrolysis, and the design of the filters, e.g., multilayer filters. Initial results suggest that biochar from agricultural residues has enhanced adsorption and filtration capabilities when pyrolysis is set at certain temperatures. Optimized filter designs demonstrate lower counts of E. coli and lower turbidity, outperforming most standard solutions. This study helps balance sustainability principles and water management techniques, providing a valid solution for decentralized treatment systems in underdeveloped regions.