Solar water disinfection, in short sodis, is a type of portable water purification that uses solar energy to make biologically-contaminated (e.g. bacteria, viruses, protozoa, and worms) water safe to drink. Water contaminated with non-biological agents such as toxic chemicals or heavy metals require additional steps to make the water safe to drink.
The process involves contaminated water being filled in transparent PET or glass bottles which are then exposed to the sun for approximately 6 hours. The UV rays of sun eliminate the diarrhea-causing pathogens, thereby making the water fit for consumption.
SODIS is an effective method for treating water where fuel or cookers are unavailable or prohibitively expensive. Even where fuel is available, SODIS is a more economical and environmentally friendly option. The application of SODIS is limited if enough bottles are not available, or if the water is highly turbid. In fact, if the water is highly turbid.
The effectiveness of the SODIS was first discovered by Aftim Acra, of the American University of Beirut in the early 1980s.
SODIS projects are funded by, among others, the SOLAQUA Foundation, several Lions Clubs, Rotary Clubs, Migros, and the Michel Comte Water Foundation.
The Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology (EAWAG), through the Department of Water and Sanitation in Developing Countries (Sandec), coordinates SODIS promotion projects in 33 countries.
" />Solar water disinfection, in short sodis, is a type of portable water purification that uses solar energy to make biologically-contaminated (e.g. bacteria, viruses, protozoa, and worms) water safe to drink. Water contaminated with non-biological agents such as toxic chemicals or heavy metals require additional steps to make the water safe to drink.
The process involves contaminated water being filled in transparent PET or glass bottles which are then exposed to the sun for approximately 6 hours. The UV rays of sun eliminate the diarrhea-causing pathogens, thereby making the water fit for consumption.
SODIS is an effective method for treating water where fuel or cookers are unavailable or prohibitively expensive. Even where fuel is available, SODIS is a more economical and environmentally friendly option. The application of SODIS is limited if enough bottles are not available, or if the water is highly turbid. In fact, if the water is highly turbid.
The effectiveness of the SODIS was first discovered by Aftim Acra, of the American University of Beirut in the early 1980s.
SODIS projects are funded by, among others, the SOLAQUA Foundation, several Lions Clubs, Rotary Clubs, Migros, and the Michel Comte Water Foundation.
The Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology (EAWAG), through the Department of Water and Sanitation in Developing Countries (Sandec), coordinates SODIS promotion projects in 33 countries.
" />