By giving local artisans the ability to create and sell filters amongst their current products, it allows for the natural propagation of clean water throughout communities.
The filter material is created from clay and fine sawdust. Kiln firing a vessel made from the mixture chars the wood, causing it to shrink inside the walls of the pot. What's left is a semi-permeable charcoal filter that can protect against 99% of all water-borne contaminants. In areas with higher concentrations of heavy metals, mixing in silica or zinc can also increase overall effectiveness.
The initial concept was proposed with three design variations; a kettle, a drop in filter, and an over-bottle concept. After research and deliberation, the bottle variant was determined to be non-functional due to the volume and pressure needed.
The design of the mold series started in 2016 after a trek through the remote regions of Nepal. After returning, I spoke to experts about the potential for such a material, Elements like this have been in place for some time, but the distribution method was novel. I made a large number of scale models, as well as a functional version with a local potter in my area. This model traveled with me to Chicago in 2017 as part of a international award that I received as a result.
