Evaluation of the mixtures of clay, diatomite, and sawdust for production of ceramic pot filters for water treatment interventions using locally sourced materials

Abstract

The need to improve the flow rate and maintain the quality of filtrate using ceramic pot filter (CPF) so as to improve the access to potable water in rural areas informed this work. Mixtures of clay, diatomite and sawdust were utilized in the production of CPFs. The percentage mixtures were; A (sawdust 65, clay 25, diatomite 10) B (sawdust 60, clay 25, diatomite 15), C (sawdust 50, clay 25, diatomite 25) and D (sawdust 45, clay 25, diatomite 30). Physical analyses of the clay were done after firing at 850oC and 950oC. Chemical characterization of the clay sample with the compounded mixtures was done using X-ray fluorescence spectrophotometer and X-ray diffractometer. The solid casting method was employed in the production of CPFs and fired at 850oC and 950oC. The flow rates of CPFs were determined, with Sample A, giving the highest flow rate of 2.5L/h followed by B (2.0L/h), C (0.2L/h) and D (0.06L/h). Results showed that sample A has the best physical properties determined, with the best firing temperature of 850oC. The choice Sample A was further tested and compared with B, by usage in treating water samples from a rural community. The morphology of the selected sample was determined using a Scanning Electron Microscope. Analyses of the untreated and treated water samples showed removal efficiencies for turbidity, TDS, TSS, E coli and coliform as 79%, 64%, 62%, 100% and 100% respectively. All results obtained were within the WHO limit. Results confirmed the suitability of the materials for CPFs production.