Water Purification in Cambodia University of Western Australia EWB Challenge 2008 Jessica Equid Tom Pope Andrew Stead John Verran Patrick DonovanBeau Mavric

Problem Definition 80% of deaths in Cambodia result from water borne illnesses Lack of sufficient, cost effective filters available Villagers source up to 16% of their water from deep wells – typical of Kandal Province in the dry season – contains unsafe levels of arsenic Drinking water standards – 176ppb of arsenic needs to be reduced to 50ppb – pathogens, microorganisms and turbidity eliminated Village scale, at low unit cost Simple to construct, low skill level required Low maintenance Target design life 5+ years

Solution

Arsenic Removal Testing Small scale prototype constructed Varying concentrations of arsenic tested Reduced arsenic to safe levels – average reduction 89%

Turbidity Testing Utilised 1/7 th scale prototype Visual and taste tests performed on discharge from unit

Flow Performance Testing Selection of mix for support concrete Flow restrictions through nail bed Overall hydraulic capacity

Implementation Capital sourced within region – human and physical Construction Education – importance of safe drinking water – filter usage Monitoring and maintenance – ensure filter provides safe water for extended time period Waste Management – safe disposal of all wastes Project Costing – cost of materials for single filter, estimated to be less than $500

Impact assessment Environmental – arsenic sludge removal and disposal – all materials can be recycled Economic – local industries supported – jobs created – minimal ongoing costs Social – success dictated by end users – education vital – seamless integration required – increased local knowledge base

Conclusion Our filter is so easy to construct that it can even be made by a group of 1 st year engineering students.