1. Membrane filtration technology: This technology uses membranes with tiny pores that filter out particles, pathogens, and other contaminants from water. Strategies such as reverse osmosis and nanofiltration employ this technique to purify water at the molecular level.
2. UV disinfection: This innovation uses ultraviolet (UV) lights to destroy pathogens and microorganisms in water by breaking down their DNA and rendering them harmless.
3. Ozonation: Ozonation relies on the injection of ozone (O3) gas into water, which oxidizes harmful contaminants and neutralizes odors and tastes.
4. Activated carbon filtration: This method involves the use of activated carbon to remove impurities from water. The carbon adsorbs organic chemicals, such as chlorine and volatile organic compounds, in the water.
5. Desalination: This technique is used to purify seawater and turn it into potable water. It involves removing salt and other impurities from seawater through reverse osmosis, distillation, or electrodialysis.
6. Ceramic water filters: These filters are made of ceramic materials and contain small pores that filter out bacteria, protozoa, and other contaminants from water. They are cheap and effective for providing safe drinking water in areas with limited access to clean water.
7. Chemical disinfection: This method uses chemicals such as chlorine, chlorine dioxide, and potassium permanganate to destroy microorganisms in water.
8. Electrochemical oxidation: This technique employs a process called electrochemical advanced oxidation to remove contaminants such as pharmaceuticals and personal care products from water sources.
9. Hybrid filtration systems: These are combination systems that use several different processes to purify water, such as sediment filtration, reverse osmosis, and UV disinfection.
10. Solar stills: These are an effective way of purifying water in areas with little access to electricity. Solar stills use solar energy to vaporize and collect pure water from impure water sources.
