1

A Major Project Report

On

Bio- Glass Filter

Impartial fulfillment of the requirement for the award of the degree of Bachelor of

Technology in Civil Engineering

By

Siddharth Thakur

A7615816007

Under guidance of

Dr. Md. Arif Siddiquie

Associate Professor

Department of Civil Engineering

Amity School of Engineering and Technology

Lucknow

Submitted to:

Department of Civil Engineering

Amity School of Engineering and Technology

Amity University Uttar Pradesh

Lucknow Campus (2016-2020)

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AMITY UNIVERSITY
–––––––––UTTAR PRADESH–––––––––

DECLARATION BY THE STUDENT

I, Siddharth Thakur, student of B.Tech hereby declare that the project titled “Bio- Glass Filter” which is
submitted by me to Department of Civil Engineering, Amity School of Engineering and Technology, Amity
University Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow, in partial fulfillment of requirement for the award of the degree of
BACHELOR OF TECHNOLOGY in Civil Engineering has not been previously formed the basis for the
award of any degree, diploma or other similar title or recognition.

The Author attests that permission has been obtained for the use of any copy righted material appearing in
the Project report other than brief excerpts requiring only proper acknowledgement in scholarly writing
and all such use is acknowledged.

Lucknow Siddharth Thakur

Date: B.Tech (CE)

A7615816007
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AMITY UNIVERSITY
–––––––––UTTAR PRADESH–––––––––

CERTIFICATE

On the basis of declaration submitted by Siddharth Thakur student of B.Tech, I hereby certify that the project
titled “Bio- Glass Filter” which is submitted to Amity School of Engineering and Technology, Amity
University Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow, in partial fulfillment of the requirement for the award of the degree of
BACHELOR OF TECHNOLOGY in Civil Engineering, is an original contribution with existing knowledge
and faithful record of work carried out by him/her under my guidance and supervision.

To the best of my knowledge this work has not been submitted in part or full for any Degree or Diploma to this
University or elsewhere.

Lucknow
Date

Name of Guide: Dr. Md. Arif Siddiquie

Designation of guide: Associate Professor

Amity University

Wg.Cdr (Dr.) Anil Kumar (Retd)

Asst. Pro. VC & Director ASET
Amity University, Lucknow
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AMITY UNIVERSITY
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

It is a well-established fact that behind every achievement lays an unfathomable sea of gratitude to those who
extend their support and without whom this project report would ever have come into existence.

I would like to express my sincere gratitude to my faculty guide Dr. Md. Arif Siddiquie for his gracious efforts
and keen pursuits, which have remained as a valuable assist for the successful completion of the project work.

I am indebted to respected Head of Department of Civil Engineering and faculty members Col. Vivek Mathur,
Dr Divya Srivastava, Miss Pallavi Rai, and Mr Devesh Ojha for their keen interest, encouragement and
support which helped me in completing this project “Water Filtration Process’’.

Siddharth Thakur

A7615816007
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ABSTRACT

It is estimated that over one billion people worldwide still lack access to safe drinking water, and that far more
drink water that is grossly contaminated. Large part of the world is not getting the pure drinking water. The
WHO estimates that 700 million worldwide without access to an improved drinking water supply. Some
communities located in a remote area of the country have one or more boreholes that pump water some of the
time; however, these sources cannot yield enough clean water for the demand of the entire community. Even if
they could, some households would continue to fetch from the streams and dam for various reasons.
Contaminated drinking water is part of the reason for approximately 1.8 million deaths each year in the world
caused from diarrhea‐related disease, the majority being children under five years of age. A recent policy shift
in public health, supported by field studies and literature, has moved toward household point‐of‐use water
treatment as an effective intervention to combat this problem. As an adaptation of slow sand filtration, the
intermittent Bio Sand Filter was invented by Dr. David Manz in 1995 specifically with household use in mind.
Since then over 200,000 concrete Bio-Sand Filters have been constructed and installed in over 70 countries, and
numerous field tests have shown it to be an attractive point‐of‐use treatment option. However, its limitations of
being very heavy and having a slow construction time remains a barrier to wider implementation. Overcoming
these specific obstacles, the Bio Glass Water Filter as a light weight alternative made from injection ‐molded
plastic for efficient production. A assessment of the best methods of installation, flow rates, water quality, user
acceptability and comprehension, health impacts, and comparison between the Bio Glass and concrete Bio sand
model is mentioned in the report. The results of the study show that the filter could be effective point ‐of ‐use
water treatment technology for and suggests that it would be an attractive option for similar communities in
poor regions. The installation guidelines – developed to provide specific information about media preparation,
assembling of the filter, and installation processes – can be used by implementing agencies to efficiently install
large numbers of filters in the field.  At installation the filters had an average flow rate of 0.96 L/min that
decreased over the two month period to roughly 0.61 L/min. With a mature bio-layer, the average removal
efficiencies for Total and Fecal Coliforms were 84% and 86%, respectively. However, one‐third of the filters
tested showed removal efficiencies of 100% for both. The Bio Glass Water Filter has improved in terms of
production, distribution and user‐preference but remains limited by cost, durability and project sustainability,
when comparing it with the traditional concrete Bio-Sand Filter.
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AMITY UNIVERSITY
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CONTENTS

Description Page No.

Declaration by Student 2

Certificate 3

Acknowledgement 4

Abstract 5

Introduction 11

Literature Review 12

1. Introduction 14-19
1.1 Necessity if water Filtration 14
1.2 Basic Needs 15
1.3 Secondary needs 16
1.4 Water Borne Diseases 16
1.4.1 Common Water Borne Diseases 16
1.5 Prevention of Water Borne Diseases 17
1.6 Motivation for Research 18

2. Bio Glass Filter 20-24

2.1 Point of use water treatment 20

2.1.1 Boiling 21

2.1.2 Solar Disinfection 21

2.1.3 Chlorination 21

2.1.4 Ceramic Filter 22

2.1.5 Bio Sand Filters (BSF) 22

2.2 Bio Glass Filter 22

2.2.1 Biological Glass Filtration 23

(i) Mechanical Trapping 23

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(ii) Predation 24

(iii) Adsorption 24

(iv) Natural Death 24

3. Intermittent and components of Bio glass filter 25-30

3.1 Intermittent Bio Glass Filter 25

3.1.1 Operation 26

3.1.2 Flow Rate 26

3.1.3 Influent Water Quality 26

3.1.4 Effluent Water Quality 27

3.1.5 Safe Storage 27

3.1.6 Maintenance 28

3.1.7 Bio Glass Filter Summary 29

3.2 Components of Bio Glass Filter 30

4. Working and Methodology 31-44

4.1 Zones of Bio Glass Filter 31

4.2 Methodology 32

4.2.1 Construction Parameter 32

4.2.2 Construction, Installation, Operation and Maintenance Instructions 33

(i) Stage A- Obtain tools and materials 34

(ii) Stage B- Locate the glass and gravel 36

(iii) Stage C- Prepare the glass and gravel 37

(iv) Stage E- Construct the diffuser 40

(v) Stage F- Contraction of lid 41

(vi) Stage G- Installation 42

(vii) Stage H- Operation, Maintenance, Follow-up 43

5. Test Performed 45-48

5.1 Testing the Hardness of water 45
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5.2 Testing the Turbidity of water 47

6. Filter Performance and Advantages 49-52

6.1 Flow Rate Modeling Equation 49

6.2Advantages of Bio Glass Filter 50

6.3 Reasons for using Glass instead of Sand 51

7. Conclusion, Future Scope and References 53-54

7.1 Conclusion 53

7.2 Future Scope 53

7.3 References 54

Appendix 1 55

Appendix 2 56
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AMITY UNIVERSITY
–––––––––UTTAR PRADESH–––––––––

INDEX OF FIGURES

Figure No. Description Page No.

1.1 Reported Drinking Water- Associated Disease Outbreaks 16

1.2 World Map showing developing countries’ total access to an 18

improved drinking water supply (Adapted from WHO Joint
Monitoring Program 2006).

1.3 Statistics showing no Access to an Improved Drinking Water 18

Supply in World

2.1 Boiling 21

2.2 Solar Disinfection 21

2.3 Chlorination 21

2.4 Ceramic Filter 21

2.5 Bio Sand Filter 21

2.6 Bio glass filter model 22

3.1 Layout of bio glass filter 24

3.2 Examples of safe storage containers 27

3.3 The graph above demonstrates how flow rates decrease with 27
time.

3.4 Components of Bio Glass Filter 29

4.1 Different Zones of Bio Glass Filter 30

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4.2 Construction Parameter of BGF 31

4.3 Arrangement of sieves 36

4.4 Crushed glass of two sizes as mentioned in the process 37

4.5 Two sizes of gravel as mentioned in the process 38

4.6 Washing gravel 39

4.7 Plastic diffuser plate 40

4.8 Top wooden lid 41

5.1 Turbidity test 47

6.1 Recommended flow rates by the Center for Affordable Water 49

and Sanitation Technology (CAWST)

6.2 Advantages of Bio Glass Filter 50

6.3 Molecular view 50

INDEX OF FIGURES

Table No. Description Page No.

1. Parameter including advantages and limitations for 29

Bio Glass Filter

2. Water hardness scale 46

3. Readings of titration process 47

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INTRODUCTION

Over 780 million people world-wide lack access to safe drinking water sources (World Health Organization/
United Nations Children’s Fund [WHO/UNICEF]. Contamination of drinking water through poor sanitation and
hygiene is a major health risk in underdeveloped countries and is responsible for 88% of diarrheal disease in the
world (WHO). In some part of country, child mortality rates are 15 times higher than in the United States,
largely due to inadequate access to clean water, proper sanitation, and hygiene (WHO). While some strides have
been made toward providing improved, safe drinking water sources to urban areas since the 1990s, 49% of
urban still use unimproved sources for drinking water.

In many other underdeveloped countries, many NGOs and aid agencies have turned to Point of Use (POU)
water treatment methods to provide clean water. POU technologies treat small volumes of water and remove
pathogens and contaminants through biological, chemical, solar, coagulation, and filtration methods. The most
widely used include; liquid or tablet chlorine, solar water purification (SODIS), ceramic filters, and bio-sand
filter (BSF) disinfectant and turbidity flocculation powder. In a review assessing sustainability of POU
technologies, Sobsey et al. concluded that in addition to being one of the most widely distributed POU
technologies, the BSF is one of the most reliable for treatment and removal of harmful diarrhea-causing bacteria
and turbidity, and was a highly sustainable technology over long-term use. However, some studies suggest that
research conducted on POU technologies such as the BSF are biased, lack hard scientific evidence from double
blind tests, and that the current trend of world-wide distribution is premature. Vanderzwaag suggested that
without a proper implementation strategy, the BSF may not be an appropriate technology and can adversely
affect how receptive a population is to future aid. It is estimated that more than 140,000 BSFs are used by half a
million people world-wide.

The Bio-Glass Filter (BGF) is a household-scale slow glass filter which is based on slow bio-sand filter,
developed by Dr. David Manz of the University of Calgary, Canada. Bio-sand filter has been tested by several
government, research and health institutions as well as NGO agencies in Canada, Vietnam, Brazil, Nicaragua,
and Bangladesh. A Nepali NGO, Hope for the Nation, has been promoting the filter in the central foothill region
of Palpa and the southern flatland region of Nawalparasi so this glass filter could also make big difference in
providing pure drinking water.
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LITERATURE REVIEW

The household bio-sand filter was proposed by Dr. David Manz in the late 1980s at the University of Calgary,
Canada. The system was developed from the slow sand filter, a technology that has been used for drinking
water purification since the 1800s. Initial lab and field tests were conducted in 1991; the system was patented in
1993 and was implemented in the field in Nicaragua. The Canadian non-profit company Center for Affordable
Water and Sanitation Technology (CAWST) was co-founded in 2001 by David Manz and Camille Dow
Baker to promote education and training in water purification and sanitation including using this technology,
and to continue developing it.

Safe drinking water for human consumption should be free from pathogens such as bacteria, viruses and
protozoan parasites, meet the standard guidelines for taste, odor, appearance and chemical concentrations, and
must be available in adequate quantities for domestic purposes (Kirkwood, 1998). However, inadequate
sanitation and persistent faecal contamination of water sources is responsible for a large percentage of people in
both developed and developing countries not having access to microbiologically safe drinking water and
suffering from diarrheal diseases (WHO, 2002a; WHO, 2002b). Diarrheal diseases are responsible for
approximately 2.5 million deaths annually in developing countries, affecting children younger than five years,
especially those in areas devoid of access to potable water supply and sanitation (Kosek et al., 2003; Obi et al.,
2003; Lin et al., 2004; Obi et al., 2004).

Political upheaval, high numbers of refugees in some developing countries, and the global appearances of
squatter camps and shanty rural towns, which lack proper sanitation and water connections, have contributed to
conditions under which disease causing microorganisms can replicate and thrive (Leclerc et al., 2002; Sobsey,
2002; Theron and Cloete, 2002). The people most susceptible to waterborne diseases include young children,
the elderly, people suffering from malnutrition, pregnant woman, immunocompromised individuals, people
suffering from chemical dependencies and persons predisposed to other illnesses like diabetes (Sobsey et al.,
1993; Gerba et al., 1996; Grabow, 1996; Leclerc et al., 2002; Theron and Cloete, 2002). Furthermore, an
increasing number of people are becoming susceptible to infections with specific pathogens due to the
indiscriminate use of antimicrobial drugs, which have lead to the selection of antibiotic resistant bacteria and
drug resistant protozoa (WHO, 2002c; NRC, 2004).

In developing countries, many people are living in rural communities and have to collect their drinking water
some distances away from the household and transport it back in various types of containers (Sobsey, 2002).
Microbiological contamination of the water may occur between the collection point and the point-of-use in the
household due to unhygienic practices causing the water to become a health risk (Sobsey, 2002; Gundry et al.,
2004; Moyo et al., 2004). To improve and protect the microbiological quality and to reduce the potential health
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risk of water to these households, intervention strategies is needed that is easy to use, effective, affordable,
functional and sustainable (CDC, 2001; Sobsey, 2002). Many different water collection and storage systems
have been developed and evaluated in the laboratory and under field conditions (Sobsey, 2002). In addition, a
variety of physical and chemical treatment methods to improve the microbiological quality of water are
available (Sobsey, 2002). The aim of this study was to improve the microbiological quality of drinking water in
rural households by the implementation of intervention strategies which include the use of traditional storage
containers as well as the CDC safe storage container, with or without the addition of a sodium hypochlorite
solution at the point-of-use.

Purification of drinking water is a very important problem in environmental engineering. Purification of

drinking water is typically achieved via adding a disinfectant. The purification of drinking water involves
several stages of treatment of the raw water for the removal of suspended solids, color, and bacteria before
entering the distribution network. Clarification, disinfection, pH adjustment, filtration and taste and odor
removal are part of the stages of treatment. The quality of drinking water is altered by the use of nitrogen-based
fertilizers commonly used in agriculture or products of domestic use. Denitrification of drinking water is needed
in this case to reduce the concentrations of nitrites and nitrates present in the raw water. However, in this
document we emphasize the filtration of water through glass as media for drinking purpose. Stricter drinking
water quality standards demand improvement of control systems for water treatment.

The application of crushed glass for filter media is relatively new, and very few studies have reported on its
feasibility (Piccirillo and Letterman 1997). If successful, the use of crushed glass could prove important to the
postconsumer glass industry, as many industries (e.g., municipal drinking water, on-site wastewater, and
industrial processwater) rely on filtration for water treatment. While it is recognized that filter media may lose
only 5–7% per annum (AWWA 1998) and the market opportunities for crushed glass may be small in
comparison to the postconsumer annual volume. This study is to build on one of the basic principles of
industrial ecology, which is that waste from one company is feedstock to another industrial application (Bishop
2000).
In general, comparing glass media with sand media is an uncertain science due to the wide differences between
naturally occurring silica sands and the varying preparation techniques for glass sands. With silica sands,
natural variations in geology affect the chemistry and angularity, and thus the overall effectiveness of sand as a
filter medium. In contrast, all glass sands have a similar chemistry, being derived from bottle or plate glass.
However, there are wide differences in process techniques that affect trace contaminants, fines, and uniformity
depending on the process used to recover and process the glass for use as a filter media.
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CHAPTER 1: NEED OF WATER FILTRATION

1.1 NECESSITY OF WATER FILTRATION

The cells inside your body are surrounded by a fluid that is mostly water and your cells themselves range from
70% to 80% in water content. Water is the biological medium here on Earth and the supporter of all life forms.

Water circulates through our body without rest and causes the macromolecules (proteins, enzymes, and genes)
and cells in the body to function properly. When information is passed from tissues to tissue, it is water that
delivers this information. Water performs not one but many particular tasks, all life supporting or life saving. In
a living body, if the circulation of water slows down too much, life ceases. Equally important to both lower and
higher organisms, water is the vital generator of life and its supporting force.

Water can contain dirt, minerals, chemicals and other impurities that make it smell and taste bad. Some of these
contaminants can endanger your health, especially when they include microscopic organisms and bacteria that
can cause serious illness. Filtering water can help purify water, removing these impurities and making it safe to
drink, while often improving its taste.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO) more than 780 million people worldwide have lack of
access to permanent sources of potable water.

 One in five people do not have access to safe drinking water

 Every 15 seconds a child dies from water related diseases
 Some young children and women trek up to six miles a day in order to collect water for their families

Mostly these people live in poor urban areas and fields, in developing countries and consuming untreated water.

They take water from the rivers, lakes or rain and keep it in inadequate storage and drink it without treatment.

Purification of water helps in:

1. Prevent the various cancer causing risks.

2.  Deeply removes the chlorine from the water and makes it healthy for a drink.
3. Once you have the water purifiers at your home you can save money on water expenses.
4. Filtered water is all free of lead which is harmful for human body.
5. You won’t have the typical constipation problems.
6. You can have more delicious and healthier food.
7. Clean water keeps the doctors away.
8. Filter water makes the water taste better.
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9.  Strengthen Your Children’ Immunity System.

10. Complete detoxification benefits.
11. Stave off the birth defects in new-born babies.
12. Say by to the irritating headache problems.

1.2 BASIC NEEDS

Each dry season many communities face a severe water shortage (See Figure 1). All available surface water
sources in many areas are fetched until exhausted and community members are forced to travel from 8‐16 miles
(round trip) to bring water back for everyday household activities. If we take example of the many small urban
area communities prays for the rain, which can start as early as April but typically doesn’t fall enough for the
streams to flow until May or as late as June. In the meantime people live in a delicate balance. Water becomes a
precious commodity, and much time is dedicated to finding it. The two boreholes in the community yield very
poorly during the dry season, as the groundwater table has dropped. Some households will pay to fetch their
drinking water from it, but with the hand pump taking about twenty minutes to fill a thirty liter head pan (1.5
L/min) it quickly becomes apparent that there is not enough water to go around. Many surveys are done there
and bio sand filter were provided to the several communities so that they could have sage drinking water.

Likewise there are many small communities or small group of people or you can say small villages in India who
are not able to get even safe drinking water. There problem are more or less same like above example mentioned,
they also have to cover long distances to get water which are not even safe to drink. Like here in towns people
can afford filters for pure drinking water they just can’t. They are earning their daily expenses for food only. Set
of community problems involve the lack of access to clean drinking water and basic sanitation facilities. As most
people solely use surface water sources for their drinking and cooking throughout the year, there is a need to
improve the quality of drinking water to decrease the risk of waterborne disease. The only previously taught
point‐of‐use treatment option was to boil the water. The safe disposal of human excrement is also a huge
problem, and potential source of fecal‐oral illnesses in the community. Commonly called “free‐ranging,” most
people openly defecate just outside of the settlement areas behind trees and bushes. Children usually perform
this behind houses and in ditches alongside the road.

Malaria and diarrheal‐related illnesses continue to affect a large percentage of the population. The high
incidence of malaria is due to the already large number of untreated cases in the area, numerous breeding
grounds for mosquitoes, and lack of insecticide treated bed nets. The latter is a combination of poor hygiene,
clean drinking water and unsafe disposal of excrement. Nutrition is another health problem which tends to
affect children between the ages of two and twelve years old. Unbalanced diets are due primarily to a lack in
variety of food crops, and traditional meals that are part of the culture.
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1.3 SECONDARY NEEDS

Many small villages or communities still exist that lacks electricity. Although, most people would consider
electricity to be a luxury item, community development remains limited in many regards without it. As of
now, it is impossible to refrigerate vaccinations at the clinic, or power water pumps. Also businesses that
could provide employment opportunities for the area are not attracted here due to the lack of electricity.

Many places lack proper facilities, resources, teachers and overall capacity to effectively enroll and teach all of
the community’s children.

1.4 WATER BORNE DISEASE

Waterborne diseases are conditions caused by pathogenic micro-organisms that are transmitted in water. Disease
can be spread while bathing, washing, drinking water, or by eating food exposed to contaminated water. While
diarrhea and vomiting are the most commonly reported symptoms of waterborne illness, other symptoms can
include skin, ear, respiratory, or eye problems.

Various forms of waterborne diarrheal disease are the most prominent examples, and affect children in
developing countries most dramatically. According to the World Health Organization, waterborne diseases
account for an estimated 3.6% of the total DALY (disability- adjusted life year) global burden of disease , and cause
about 1.5 million human deaths annually. The World Health Organization estimates that 58% of that burden, or
842,000 deaths per year, is attributable to a lack of safe drinking water supply, sanitation and hygiene

1.4.1 COMMON WATERBORNE DISEASE, BACTERIA, VIRUSES AND CYSTS

 Travellers’ Diarrhea
 Giardia and Cryptosporidium
 Dysentery
 Salmonella
 Escherichia coli (E. coli)
 Typhoid Fever
 Cholera
 Hepatitus A
 Hepatitus E
 Campylobacter
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With decreased access to an improved drinking water source the risk increases for contracting a wide
variety of waterborne diseases. Bacteria such as Escherichia Coli, Salmonella typhi, Shigella spp, and
Vibrio cholerae can be present in surface water, causing diarrhea, leptospirosis, typhoid, shigellosis and
cholera, respectively. The nurses at the different communities’ clinic report a high number of diarrhea‐
related illnesses each month in the community, which can be partially attributed to drinking untreated
drinking water. Protozoa like amoebas and cysts can also bring illnesses like amoebiasis and giardiasis.
Helminths are parasite eggs that are usually found within a host inside surface water. When ingested they
adapt to a human host and grow into worms.

Figure1.1: Reported Drinking Water- Associated Disease Outbreaks, 2013-2014 (n=42); CDC (2017)

1.5 PREVENTION OF WATER BORN DISEASE

 Don’t trust bottled water. Reports of locals filling bottles with tap water, sealing and then selling as
purified water have come out of several countries. Since Aquatabs have no unpleasant taste or colour,
play it safe any time you are faced with suspect water.
 If you’re visiting or living in an area with poor sanitation, be especially wary of the water.
 If your local Medical Officer of Health has issued a Boil Water Advisory for your community, take the
advice seriously.
 Do not drink untreated water from a spring, stream, river, lake, pond or shallow well. Assume it is
contaminated with animal, bird and/or human feces. Disinfect with Aquatabs or boil for 1 to 5 minutes
depending on elevation.
 Prevention is easier than seeking medical treatment once infected. Aquatabs produce no unpleasant taste
or colour and are safe and simple to use. If you run out of Aquatabs, boil all suspect water for 1 to 5
minutes depending on elevation.
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 Ask for drinks without ice unless the ice is made from bottled or boiled water. Avoid popsicles and
flavored ices that may have been made with contaminated water.
 In many places, the food can be as risky as the water. You should be especially suspicious of salads,
uncooked fruits and vegetables, unpasteurized milk, raw meat, shellfish, and any foods sold by street
vendors. Avoid eating raw fruits and vegetables unless peeled in your presence. Avoid raw milk and
products made from raw milk. Drink only pasteurized or boiled milk.
 Practice good hygiene such as frequent hand washing and disinfection of cutlery, cutting boards, etc.
Wash hands thoroughly and frequently using soap, in particular after contact with pets or farm animals,
or after having been to the toilet.
 A simple rule of thumb is “Disinfect or boil it, cook it, peel it, or forget it.”

1.6 MOTIVATION FOR RESEARCH

According to the World Health Organization (WHO) 1.1 billion people lack access to an improved drinking
water supply, and many more drink water that is grossly contaminated (See Figure 3). Four billion cases of
diarrhea occur annually, of which 88% is attributed to unsafe water, and inadequate sanitation and hygiene.
Every year, 1.8 million people die from diarrhea‐related diseases with the vast majority being under 5 years of
age. The lack of safe water perpetuates the cycle of poverty in which populations become further
disadvantaged and entrenched within the system. WHO estimates that 94% of diarrheal cases are preventable
through modifications to the environment including interventions to increase the availability of clean water,
and improve sanitation and hygiene. Recent evidence suggests that point‐of‐use water quality improvements
alone result in a one‐third or greater reduction in diarrheal disease morbidity. Approaches such as these target
the most affected, enhance health, contribute to development and productivity, and deserve far greater priority
for implementation. The International Network to Promote Household Water Treatment and Safe Storage goes
as far to suggest that, “a policy shift towards household water management and safe storage appears to be the
most attractive short‐term water‐related health intervention in many developing countries” (the Network,
WHO 2007).

Government records show that in 1980, just 1% of India’s rural areas had access to safe, usable water. By 2013, that had
increased to 30%, but the majority of rural India continues to live without proper access to safe drinking water.

A Water Aid report in 2016 ranked India among the worst countries in the world for the number of people
without safe water. An estimated 76 million people in India have no access to a safe water supply, and the
situation is only getting more serious.
 19

Figure 1.2: World Map showing developing countries’ total access to an improved drinking water supply (Adapted
from WHO Joint Monitoring Program 2006).

Figure 1.3: Statistics showing no Access to an Improved Drinking Water Supply in World
 20

CHAPTER 2: BIO- GLASS FILTER

This chapter begins by outlining various point‐of‐use (POU) water treatment methods available, and focuses on
Bio-Glass Filters. The discussion of this particular technology is done to reveal how it can be used in
community‐scale and poor regions. More technical information forms the background for the operational
processes, optimization and design parameters.

2.1 POINT-OF-USE WATER TREATMENT

POU water treatment has gained momentum within the realm of public health as an effective way to reduce
diarrheal disease in developing countries. Dr. Tom Clasen summarized during a lecture at Michigan
Technological University that previous in‐depth studies had found water treatment alone to have a lower impact
than all other interventions (Esrey et al 1991). However, the studies had only included results from point ‐source
treatment systems, not POU technologies managed at the household level. Recent studies exclusively analyzing
POU treatment technologies in the field have shown reductions in diarrheal disease of up to 48% (Crump et al
2005; Brin 2003). Due to these findings POU water treatment is noted as a viable intervention for diarrheal
reduction, and many organizations and institutions are implementing projects which focus specifically on these
technologies or a combination of them with another intervention.  

There are many examples of POU water treatment technologies that are being promoted in lesser developed
countries. These utilize three main categories of treatment methods (Sobsey 2002):

(i) Physical treatment: using boiling, heating, sedimentation, filtration and UV radiation exposure to neutralize
and/or physically remove contaminants;

(ii) Chemical treatment: using coagulation, flocculation and precipitation, adsorption, ion exchange, or
chemical disinfection to neutralize and/or remove contaminants; and

(iii) Combined treatment: using a combination of the above two processes.

Each specific technology has associated advantages and disadvantages and there appears to be no outstanding
recommendation among them. The ideal one would provide the best performance at the lowest cost, which is
not only sustainable but also acceptable to the user. However, these variables tend to change depending on
geographic location and the cultural norms and values of the people. Examined below are the POU treatment
alternatives that are currently available and/or being used in Ghana to improve drinking water supplies.
 21

2.1.1 BOILING

Bringing water to rolling boil kills most pathogens in approximately one minute at sea level, and three minutes
at altitudes above one mile. This method has attained widespread dissemination as an effective technology that
is readily available (Figure 5a). However, it is not regularly practiced simply because it is not an acceptable
option to the users, i.e. – mostly women. They are the ones who fetch the firewood and water, and perform the
cooking tasks in the home. For them, boiling water is time consuming and there is no visible change in the
water to indicate an improvement. Plus, financial costs associated with boiling include increased burns to small
children along with respiratory and environmental impacts from biomass fuel combustion.  

2.1.2 SOLAR DISINFECTION (SODIS)

Invented by a Professor at the American University of Beirut, Lebanon in 1982, solar disinfection has also
proven a highly effective treatment option. SODIS Researchers at the Swiss Federal Institute of Environmental
Science and Technology (ETH‐EAWAG/SANDEC) took up extensive studies of SODIS in 1991 and have
demonstrated a high removal rate of a wide range of microbial contaminants. A simple technology, SODIS
involves filling clear plastic bottles with contaminated water and exposing them to full sunlight for six hours
(Figure 5b). Sunlight treats the water through two synergetic mechanisms: 1) Radiation in the spectrum of UV‐
A (320‐ 400nm); and 2) increased water temperature. If the water temperature rises above 50 ºC the process is
three times faster. SODIS remains a low‐cost treatment – PET bottles are widely available for reuse – that does
not pollute the environment.

2.1.3 CHLORINATION

Highly promoted by the Center for Disease Control, chlorination is an inexpensive method of water treatment
that is very effective at neutralizing bacteria and viruses. Cited advantages include ease of use, cost
effectiveness, and the ability to treat large amounts of water at once. Overall, it faces serious challenges when
considering user acceptance. To be adopted chlorination needs sustained behavior change 21 that requires an
immense amount of educational and promotional support. The simplicity of the treatment is also questionable; a
specific dose of chlorine (usually found as a percentage in bleach) is required for a specific amount of water.
This can be a difficult process for lesser educated people to perform. Not only do the physical characteristics of
the treated water offer no apparent change but the water has an unusual smell and taste that users typically
dislike. Furthermore, bleach or chlorine solution (Figure 5c) is not readily available in many local markets
around the country, especially in rural areas.
 22

2.1.4 CERAMIC FILTER

The filter components include top and bottom metal, cylindrical containers that fit together, and a ceramic
candle between them made from white clay (Figure 5d). The candle itself is not coated with colloidal silver. The
price of the filter depends on the volume capacity.

2.1.5 BIO SAND FILTERS (BSF)

In laboratory and field tests the BSF consistently reduces bacteria, on average by 81‐100% (Kaiser et al, 2002)
and protozoa by 99.8‐100% (Palamateer et al, 1999). However, initial research shows that BSFs remove less
than 90% of indicator viruses (Figure5e). Since it does not provide complete removal of pathogens,
recontamination of drinking water can occur in the storage phase. The technology has high user acceptability
due to its ease of use, and provision of a physically improved and better tasting drinking water.

Figure 2.1 Figure 2.2 Figure 2.3 Figure 2.4 Figure 2.5

2.2 BIO-GLASS FILTER

A Bio-Glass filter (BGF) (Figure 6) is a point-of-use water treatment system could be adapted for
traditional slow glass filters. Bio-glass filters remove pathogens and suspended solids from water using biological
and physical processes that take place in a glass column. BGFs could remove heavy metals, turbidity, bacteria,
viruses and protozoa. BGFs could also reduce discoloration, odor and unpleasant taste. The use of BGFs could
decrease the occurrence of diarrhea.

A bio-glass filter (BGF) could be adapted by the rural areas, which has been used for community drinking water
treatment. The bio-glass filter is smaller (about 1 m tall, 0.3 m wide on each side) and adapted so that it does not
flow continuously, making it suitable for use in people’s homes. The filter container can be made of concrete or
plastic. It is filled with layers of specially selected and prepared crushed glass and gravel. The crushed glass
removes pathogens and suspended solids from contaminated drinking water. A biological community of
 23

bacteria and other micro-organisms would be removed in glass layer due to deficiency of oxygen and remaining
would be removed in activated charcoal layer. This reduces many of the pathogens in the water, improving the
water treatment.

 Pathogens: micro-organisms in water that make us sick

 Suspended Solids: dirt and other small pieces in the water (may also be called “turbidity”)

Figure 2.6 Bio Glass Filter Model

In short

“A glass and a biological layer trap and feed off microorganisms and contaminants, usually for
drinking use.”

2.2.1 BIOLOGICAL GLASS FILTRATION

Biological Glass Filtration Conventional slow glass filtration (Figure 6) can be use for the effective treatment of
drinking water. It is different from rapid sand filtration mainly because it contains biological activity and its
effectiveness. For this reason it is also referred to as biological glass filtration. The technology is a combination
of four biological and mechanical processes to remove pathogens and other contaminants.

(i) Mechanical Trapping:

The primary process for removal of pathogens, mechanical trapping is the physical filtration of particles
and organic material as they pass through the filter. Crushed glass sizes are usually 0.1 – 1.0 mm and the
pore spaces are usually less than this. Large materials such as grass, leaves, silt, or clay particles, along
with large pathogens like parasites, helminthes and worms are trapped in the pore spaces. Smaller
pathogens such as bacteria and viruses are trapped by the same process when they are attached to the
 24

larger particles. The filter removes 60‐90% of all pathogens (over 99.9% of large pathogens) during this
process.

(ii) Predation:
Organic material is trapped at the surface of the fine glass and forms a complex biological layer, much
like a pond or wetland ecosystem, where microorganisms grow and thrive. Referred to as the
schmutzdecke– a German word for “dirty layer” – the composition of the top 1 ‐3 cm varies depending
on the source water. However, it will typically consist of a gelatinous bio film of bacteria, fungi,
protozoa, rotifer, and a range of aquatic insect larvae. These microorganisms gain nitrogen and carbon
by consuming nutrients from the organics and other pathogens in the source water. Larger
microorganisms consume smaller ones. Stronger ones consume weaker ones. Living ones consume
dying ones. The series of predation is an active food chain within the dirty layer. Oxygen is necessary
for these aerobic organisms to survive. This is provided by dissolved oxygen in the source water.
(Intermittently operated glass filters differ from conventional designs in that additional oxygen is
diffused through the static layer of water above the glass. If the water is too deep (>8cm) the oxygen
cannot diffuse enough to get to the organisms.)

(iii) Adsorption:
Pathogens and particles, attracted due to electrical and cohesive forces, attach themselves to one another
and are thus trapped in pore spaces. Bacteria and viruses can also attach directly to the glass particles
that compose the filter media. Once attached, they are metabolized by the cells or inactivated by
antiviral chemicals produced by organisms in the filter. As the bio film starts to grow it tends to attract
an increasing amount of particles to it. This takes place in the biological zone (or bio layer) of the filter,
roughly 5‐10 cm from the surface. After this depth biological activity curtails due to lack of nutrients
and oxygen.

(iv) Natural Death:

Different from predation, this refers to the “natural” die off rate or life expectancy of the
microorganisms. If they are trapped long enough within the filter the pathogens will die from food
scarcity or less than optimal temperatures before exiting the filter. This can also occur if the pause
period is long enough – some organisms have life‐spans of only a few hours – or if aerobic organisms
are trapped deep within the filter where oxygen is not available.  
 25

CHAPTER 3: INTERMITTENT AND COMPONENTS OF

BIO GLASS FILTER

3.1 INTERMITTENT BIO GLASS FILTER

Due to the need for a continuous supply of food and oxygen from the source water, it was previously
considered impractical to operate a glass filter intermittently. The biological organisms would start to die
even after a few hours of halting the continuous flow of water.   However, in 1995 Dr. David Manz from the
University of Calgary designed the traditional sand filter to be able to operate with significant pause periods
with the help of this we will design our Bio Glass filter. His simple innovations downsized the filtration bed
into a small vertical unit and extended the outlet pipe from the bottom under‐ drain up to approximately 5
cm above the sand layer. The latter adaption allowed for adequate diffusion of oxygen through the
supernatant to the bio layer during the resting periods.

Bio- Glass filter design consists a container that stands approximately 95 cm in height and 36 cm in width.
Due to their high flow rates of 30‐40 L/hr the filters can easily provide enough clean drinking water for an
entire family each day. The cost varies depending on the country. The Bio Glass Filter (henceforth referred
to as BGF) is particularly suitable for use in low‐income countries where populations still rely on untreated,
contaminated surface water.
 26

Filter lid (wood, plastic, etc.)

Perforated diffuser plate

Standing Water Layer

Pipe for potable water outlet

Fine Crushed Glass

Collector container (with lid)

Medium Gravel

Under Drain Gravel

Figure 3.1 Layout of Bio Glass filter
3.1.1 OPERATION

The Bio Glass Filter (BGF) can be especially noted by users for its high ease of operation. The technology is
without any valves, moving parts or electrical requirements. The lid is removed and a bucket or head pan of
contaminated water can be poured into the top reservoir of the filter as necessary. The water then enters the
diffuser pan which causes the water to spread out into many smaller openings to ensure the initial force of water
does not overly disturb the schmutzdecke. The water filters through the bio-layer, glass and gravel media and
exits through the outlet pipe as the pressure increases to match the inside of the filter reservoir. After all added
water has been displaced through the filter, the head falls to the height of the horizontal outlet, approximately 5
cm above the sand. Equilibrium of pressures in the filter and outlet pipe forces the effluent to stop.  

3.1.2 FLOW RATE

The microorganisms in the Bio Glass Filter (BGF) are more closely confined to the surface than that of a
continuously operated glass filter and are limited by the diffusion of oxygen across the supernatant. Due to a
shallow biological zone there is an overall shorter contact time between the source water and bio-film, which
decreases removal rates and water quality. In order to provide comparable treatment, slower flow rates are
needed when operating the BGF. The percentage removal of pathogens has been found to be inversely
proportional to the flow rate, which is controlled by the size and cleanliness of the glass layer during the
 27

installation process. Although BGF literature states a maximum flow rate of 1.0 L/min, CAWST recently
recommended 0.6 L/min as the ideal flow rate for optimizing treatment effectiveness with adequate supply.
Pause periods have also proven effective when operating the filter as they allow time for predation to occur
within the biological layer. As the pathogens and substrate are consumed the flow rate is restored and hydraulic
conductivity increases exponentially. This further improves reduction of pathogens. However, if the pause
period is too long the microorganisms will consume everything and die off – thus decreasing reduction rates
when the filter is used again. The BGF is most effective and efficient when operated intermittently and
consistently. The optimal pause period is 6‐12 hours, with a minimum of 1 hour and a maximum of 24 hours.

3.1.3 INFLUENT WATER QUALITY

The water supplied to the Bio Glass Filter (BGF) can come from a variety of sources including rain water,
groundwater (shallow wells or bore holes) and surface water (rivers, lakes, springs, reservoirs). For optimal
performance the turbidity in the source water should be below 100 NTU to avoid premature clogging of the
filter. If higher than this the water should undergo a pre‐filtration, sedimentation or coagulation process. It is
generally recommended that the water come from the cleanest water source available. However, it should be
consistently taken from the same source since the bio-layer in the BGF will become adapted to conditions
where a certain amount of food is available. If the influent water is changed to a more contaminated source the
microorganisms will not be able to consume the increased amount of nutrients and pathogens. This type of spike
event may result in a reduction in water quality for several days afterward until the bio-layer adjusts to the new
substrate levels.

3.1.4 EFFLUENT WATER QUALITY

It normally takes a period of two to three weeks for the biological zone to mature in a new filter. During that
time the removal efficiency and oxygen demand continue to increase until leveling out and reaching maximum
rates.  After maintenance of the filter the removal efficiency also declines somewhat but has a quicker rebound
period. 

Statistics depend largely on the quality of installation, education, filter media, source water, and household use
patterns. Overall, these studies have shown that the Bio Glass Filter removes:

• 90‐99% of fecal coliforms

• 100% of protozoa and helminthes

 28

• 50‐90% of organic and inorganic toxicants

• 95‐99% of Zn, Cu, Cd, and Pb

• <67% of Fe and Mn

• <47% of arsenic with filter adaptation

• ~80‐90% of viruses with a mature bio-layer

Although average removal efficiencies are not 100% for bacteria or viruses, in many cases the remaining level
of pathogens in the effluent water is below the infectious dosing rate. Therefore, the filter remains effective at
preventing illness and disease.

3.1.5 SAFE STORAGE

Although the filtered water is collected in a container of the user’s choice, it is recommended for safety reasons
that the collection be a closed system to prevent recontamination (Figure 8). The outlet pipe should flow
directly into a clean durable container with a small opening – preferably raised and with a spigot on the bottom
for easy access. An additional step of disinfection by chlorination or SODIS would further protect the stored
water from recontamination. 

Figure 3.2: Examples of safe storage containers

3.1.6 MAINTENANCE

Over time the pore spaces within the schmutzdecke will become clogged and the flow rate will reduce
significantly (Figure 9). Although this will increase contact time and result in greater reduction of pathogens,
the user will at some point desire a greater flow rate.  Maintenance is simple and requires only a few minutes of
time to perform what CAWST terms the “swirl‐and‐ dump” method.   The reservoir is filled with additional
 29

water and the diffuser plate removed. The surface of the sand is agitated by hand or with a stick to suspend the
captured material in the water (swirl). However, the surface layer should not be worked deeper than 5 cm. The
dirty water is then bailed out with a small container (dump) and the process is repeated until the desired flow
rate is reached.  The bio-layer tends to re‐grow quickly and removal efficiency returns to the previous level
(CASWT 2006). The spout and receiving container also need to be disinfected with chlorine solution or cleaned
with soap and water on a regular basis to reduce the risk of recontamination.

Figure 3.3: The graph above demonstrates how flow rates decrease with time as sediment and pathogens block pore spaces
within the filter media. Once the flow rate becomes too slow, maintenance is performed and the flow rate increases.

3.1.7 BIO GLASS FILTER SUMMARY

Table1. Design Parameter including advantages and limitations for Bio Glass Filter
 30

3.2 COMPONENTS OF BIO GLASS FILTER

 31

1. Lid – Tightly fitting lid prevents contamination and

unwanted pests.

2. Diffuser – Prevents disturbing the filtration glass layer and

protects the bio-layer when water is poured into the filter

3. Filtration Glass Layer – Removes pathogens and suspended

solids. (~40-50 cm deep)

4. Outlet Tube – Required to conduct water from the base to

the outside of the filter. (½” PVC pipe)

5. Filter Body – Holds the glass and gravel layers.

6. Separating Gravel Layer – Supports the filtration glass and

prevents it from going into the drainage layer and outlet tube.
(< ¼” size, 5 cm deep)

7. Drainage Gravel Layer – Supports the separating gravel

layer and helps water to flow into the outlet tube. (½” – ¼”
gravel, 5 cm deep)

Figure3.4. Components of Bio Glass Filter

CHAPTER 4: WORKING AND METHODOLOGY

 32

4.1 ZONES OF BIO GLASS FILTER

The bio glass filter has five distinct zones:

1) Inlet reservoir zone, 2) Standing water zone, 3) Biological zone, 4) Non-biological zone, and 5) Gravel zone.

1. Inlet Reservoir Zone - Where water is poured into the

filter.

2. Standing Water Zone – This water keeps the glass wet

while letting oxygen pass to the bio-layer.

3. Biological Zone – Develops at the top 5-10 cm (2-4”)

of the glass surface. The filtration glass removes
pathogens, suspended particles and other contaminants.

As in glass filters, a biological layer of microorganisms

(also known as the bio-layer or schmutzedecke) develops
at the top 1-2 cm (0.4-0.8”) of the glass surface.

4. Non-Biological Zone – Contains virtually no living

microorganisms due to the lack of nutrients and oxygen.

5. Gravel Zone – Holds the glass in place and protects

the outlet tube from clogging.

Figure4.1. Different Zones of Bio Glass Filter

4.2 METHODOLOGY

4.2.1 CONSTRUCTION PARAMETERS OF BIO GLASS FILTER

 33

Figure 4.2 Construction Parameters of Bio Glass Filter

4.2.2 CONSTRUCTION, INSTALLATION, OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE

INSTRUCTIONS
 34

The following chart is an overview of the stages that are required to construct, install, operate and maintain the
bio glass filter. In the case where other filter bodies are used, Stages D, E and F can be changed will the other
Stages remain the same.

(i) STAGE A – OBTAIN TOOLS AND MATERIALS

 35

A good set of tools is needed to easily and properly construct and install a concrete bio glass filter. All you need
are hand tools, which will provide you with many years of useful life if they are properly maintained and
handled.

You will also need to identify a proper workspace that provides adequate shelter and storage for your tools,
filters, glass and gravel. The filtration glass should be covered or under a roof to keep it dry and from becoming
contaminated. You may consider storing your tools and materials in a locked area to prevent looting.

The following tools and materials are needed to construct one concrete filter box:

Tools:

 Steel mold (Appendix 1)

 Utility knife
 Heat source if using polyethlylene tubing (e.g. propane or kerosene torch, wood fire, electric burner) Wire brush, sandpaper,
or steel wool to clean mold
 Level
 Wooden shims of various sizes
 Two 9/16” wrenches
 Containers for measuring glass, gravel and cement 1.5 m (5’) metal rod (such as rebar) or piece of wood
 Rubber or wooden mallet
 Trowel Shovels One 1-1/2” wrench
 Hammer 4 blocks of wood (about 5 cm sq)
 Brush

Materials:

 6 mm (¼”) ID and 9 mm (3/8”) OD plastic tubing (polyethylene or vinyl)

 Tape (e.g. duct tape)
 Oil (edible product)
 Brush or rag to apply oil
 12 litres of cement
 24 litres of 1 mm (0.04”) glass
 12 litres of 12 mm (½”) gravel
 12 litres of 6 mm (¼”) gravel
 Water - approximately 7-10 litres
 Soap
 Face mask (optional)
 36

 Gloves (optional)

The following tools and materials are needed for preparing the gravel and glass:

Tools:

 12 mm (½") sieve
 6 mm (¼”) sieve
 1 mm (0.04”) sieve
 0.7 mm (0.03”) sieve
 Shovels
 Wheelbarrow (if available)
 Several large containers approximately 40 cm (15”) deep
 Small clear container with lid

Material:

 Covers (e.g. tarps or plastic sheets), roof or building to keep the glass from getting wet and contaminated
 Clean water
 12 mm (½”) gravel
 6 mm (¼”) gravel
 0.7 mm (0.3”) glass

The following tools and materials are needed for building the metal diffuser box and lid:

Tools:

 Long straight edge or ruler (at least 120 cm (48”))

 Tape measure
 Square or right angle
 Marker
 Metal cutters suitable for 28 gauge galvanized steel
 Drill with 3 mm (1/8”) drill bit
 Hammer
 Folding tool (e.g. bending brake) for bending 28 gauge sheet metal
 Anvil or steel plate set in a vice to hammer sheet metal against
 37

Materials:

 1 sheet of galvanized flat sheet metal (2438 mm x 1219 mm (4’ x 8’), 28 gauge thick

The following tools and materials are needed for installing one filter:

Tools:

 Tape measure
 A stick [approximately 100 cm (40”) long, 2.5 cm x 5 cm (1” x 2”) is preferred]
 Diffuser
 Storage container
 Watch
 Measuring container with 1 litre mark 1 m (3’) of hose that just fits over the outlet tube
 Hose clamp (if available)
 Funnel (can be made from the top of a pop or water bottle)

Material:

 Approximately 3 litres of washed 12 mm (½”) gravel (drainage layer)

 Approximately 3¼ litres of washed 6 mm (¼”) gravel (separating layer)
 Approximately 25 litres of washed 0.7 mm (0.03”) glass
 40-80 litres (10-20 gallons) of water
 Chlorine

(ii) STAGE B – LOCATE THE GLASS AND GRAVEL

Selecting and preparing the filtration glass and gravel is crucial for the treatment efficiency of the bio glass
filter. While not complicated, the steps in preparing the filtration glass must be followed exactly as presented.
Poor selection and preparation of the filtration sand could lead to poor performance and a considerable amount
of work to rectify the problem.

It was found that the crushed glass used in this project had a higher angularity and slightly higher uniformity
coefficient than the sand tested. After 6 months of use the crushed-glass filter was able to produce a filter
effluent of 50–70 particles/mL (diameter >2µm), which is greater than the 25–50 particles/mL (diameter >2µm)
that was produced by sand.
 38

The critical properties of the filter media are media grain size distribution, pore size distribution, shape of the
media, surface charge characteristic of the media, viscosity, and other physical characteristics of the media.

The filter sand used in the pressure filter had an effective size (d10) of 0.33 mm and uniformity coefficient
(UC) of 1.82. The porosity of the sand was determined to be 0.47.

Crushed glass used in the pressure filter was sieved to provide an initial d10 of 0.63 mm and UC of 1.73.The
glass was sieved to remove fines and large particles to obtain a d10 of 0.59 mm and UC of 1.58. The porosity
of the crushed glass was determined to be 0.52.

(iii) STAGE C – PREPARE THE GLASS AND GRAVEL

After crushing the available glass, next step is to perform the sieving process

Figure 4.3: Arrangement of sieves

Sieve the glass

Tools:

 2.8 mm sieve
 1.7 mm sieve
 1 mm (0.04”) sieve
 0.6 mm sieve
 Shovels

Materials:
 39

 Covers (e.g. tarps or plastic sheets), roof or building to keep the glass from getting wet and contaminated
 Face mask (optional)
 Gloves (optional)

Steps:

1. The glass must be passed through the 2.8 mm sieve, the 1.7 mm sieve, the 1 mm (0.04”) sieve, and the 0.6
mm sieve, in that order.

2. Discard the material that does not pass through the 2.8 mm sieve.

3. Store the material that is captured by the 1.7 mm sieve - A portion of this material is used to make the
concrete filter box while the other portion is sieved further to make the filtration glass.

4. Store the material that is captured by the 1 mm and 0.6mm sieve – fine crushed glass.

5. Discard the material which passes through 0.6mm sieve.

Figure 4.4: Crushed glass of two sizes as mentioned in the process.

Sieve the gravel

Tools:

 13.5 mm sieve
 6.73 mm sieve
 4.76 mm sieve
 2.38 mm sieve
 40

 Shovels

Materials:

 Covers (e.g. tarps or plastic sheets), roof or building to keep the glass from getting wet and contaminated
 Face mask (optional)
 Gloves (optional)

Steps:

1. The glass must be passed through the 13.5 mm sieve, the 6.73 mm sieve, the 4.76 mm sieve, and the 2.38 mm
sieve, in that order.

2. Discard the material that does not pass through the 13.5 mm sieve.

3. Store the material that is captured by the 6.73 mm sieve – this is used for your drainage gravel layer.

4. Store the material captured in 4.76mm and 2.38mm sieve - this is used for your separating gravel layer.

5. Discard the material which passes through the 2.38mm sieve.

Figure 4.5: Two sizes of gravel as mentioned in the process

Wash the gravel

Steps:

1. Place about 2-3 liters (0.5-1 gallon) of 6.7 mm to 13.2mm gravel in a container.
 41

2. Put twice as much water in the container.

3. Using your hand, swirl the gravel around until the water becomes quite dirty.

4. Pour the dirty water out of the container.

5. Repeat the process until the water in your container is clear.

6. Wash the rest of the 13.2 mm gravel, using the same method (a little at a time).

7. Repeat steps 1 to 2.35 for the 4.27 gravel.

8. Place all of the gravel on a cover or concrete surface in the sun to dry. This step is especially important if the gravel or
the wash water might be microbiologically contaminated.

9. Store the gravel under cover to keep it dry. You can also package it in bags or containers ready for use in the
installation process.

Figure4.6

*Similarly clean out the crushed glass.

(iv) STAGE E – CONSTRUCT THE DIFFUSER

 42

The purpose of the diffuser is to prevent any disturbance of the sand surface and bio-layer when water is added
to the top of the filter. It is essential for the correct operation of the filter so that pathogens do not penetrate far
into the sand bed. There are several types of diffusers that can be built – each with its own advantages and
limitations. The one that you choose to build will depend on your skill level, the tools and materials that are
available, and the preference of the user.

Design Specifications:

 3 mm (1/8”) diameter holes in a 2.5 cm x 2.5 cm (1” x 1”) grid pattern. Larger holes will result in disturbance
of the surface of the sand. Smaller holes will restrict the flow through the filter, possibly causing the flow rate to
drop

 There should not be a gap between the edge of the diffuser and the concrete filter. A gap allows water to travel
along the walls of the filter, rather than being distributed evenly through the holes of the diffuser plate.

 A tight fit will also prevent a diffuser made of light material from floating.

Figure4.7 Plastic diffuser plate

(v) STAGE F – CONSTRUCT THE LID

The purpose of the lid is to prevent contamination of the water and the sand. It is essential to the correct operation of the
filter. There are several types of lids that can be built. The one that you choose to build will depend on your skill level, the
tools and materials that are available, and the preference of the user.

Several materials have been used for the lids, including wood, solid-wood carvings, plastic, ceramic tiles, and sheet
metal. The appearance of the lid should be taken into consideration since it shows at all times and will be inside the user’s
home.
 43

Design Specifications:

 Should completely cover the filter reservoir

 Made so that the lid cannot be easily knocked off the filter

 Easy to remove and put on the filter

Figure 4.8

(vi) STAGE G – INSTALLATION

The bio glass filter must be installed correctly for it to work properly. Make a checklist and use it to ensure that
you have everything you’ll need before you head out to install a filter.

Position the filter

It is important to determine a good location for the filter. Locating the filter inside the home is important not
only for filter effectiveness, but also for the convenience of the user. If the users can access the filter easily, they
will be more likely to use and maintain it. Once filled with glass, the filter should not be moved. The filter
should be placed:

 In a protected location away from sunlight, wind, rain, animals, and children

 Preferably inside the home on level ground

 44

 Near the food preparation or kitchen area (depending on the space and layout of the home)

 Where it will be used and maintained easily

 So that water can easily be poured in the top

 Where there’s adequate room for hauling and pouring pails of water into the filter, as well as storing the
filtered water.

(vii) STAGE H – OPERATION, MAINTENANCE AND FOLLOW-UP

Establishing the bio-layer

The biolayer is the key component of the filter that removes pathogens. Without it, the filter removes about 30-
70% of the pathogens through mechanical trapping and adsorption. The ideal biolayer will increase the
treatment efficiency up to 99% removal of pathogens.

It may take up to 30 days for the biolayer to fully form. During that time, both the removal efficiency and the
oxygen demand will increase as the biolayer grows. The biolayer is NOT visible – it is NOT a green slimy
coating on top of the sand. The filtration sand may turn a darker colour, but this is due to the suspended solids
that have become trapped.

The water from the filter can be used during the first few weeks while the bio-layer is being established,
but disinfection, as always, is recommended during this time.

DAILY USE

All household users, including children, need to be taught how and why the filter works and about its correct
operation and maintenance. Children are frequently the main users of the filter. Proper use includes the
following practices:

 Use the filter at least once every 1-2 days, preferably 2-4 times each day

 Use the same source of water every day to improve the treatment efficiency

 Use the best source of water (least contaminated) that is available – the better the source water, the better the
treated water will be
 45

 The turbidity of the source water should be less than 50 NTU. If it is more turbid, then sediment or strain the
water before using the biosand filters.

 The diffuser must always be in place when pouring water into the filter – never pour water directly onto the
sand layer. Slowly pour the water into the filter.

 The lid should always be kept on the filter

 Use a separate container for collecting the source water

 Use a separate safe storage container that has the following qualities:

 Strong and tightly fitting lid or cover

 Tap or narrow opening at the outlet

 Stable base so it doesn’t tip over

 Durable and strong

 Should not be transparent (see-through)

 Easy to clean

 Store treated water off the ground in a shady place in the home

 Store treated water away from small children and animals

 Drinking treated water as soon as possible, preferably the same day.

MAINTENANCE

There is some key maintenance tasks that are required after a filter has been installed and used regularly.

 Wash your hands before cleaning the container

 Scrub the inside of the container with soap and treated water

 Empty the soapy water through the tap

 Rinse the container with a little treated water

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 Add chlorine to water in the storage container – let it sit for 30 minutes – if chlorine is not available, let the
container air dry

 Empty the remaining water through the tap

 Clean the tap with a clean cloth and chlorine solution (such as bleach)

 The entire filter should be cleaned regularly (e.g. lid, diffuser, outside surfaces).

CHAPTER 5: Tests Performed

5.1 TESTING THE HARDNESS OF WATER

Purpose:

The purpose of this experiment is to determine the hardness of a water sample by measuring the amount of calcium
present. This analysis will utilize the method of titration.

Introduction:

All natural waters have salts dissolved in them. It is these salts that give water a unique taste. Sometimes the
water can contain too much of these salts and can cause problems when the water is used for drinking or
washing. These problems are caused mainly by the presence of calcium and magnesium ions in the water. You
may have experienced this problem if you have taken a bath with water that contained too many calcium and
magnesium salts. The problem is that you cannot get the soap to lather and form suds. When this happens, we
say that the water is “hard.” In this experiment, you will analyze a sample of water to measure the amount of
calcium (or the water hardness) by performing titrations on filtered.

If we denote the indicator as In2-, we can write the reaction as:

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In this experiment, the end point will be indicated when the original red solution turns to blue (Equation 3)
indicating that the EDTA has reacted with all the calcium ions in the water sample. After the measurement, it
will be necessary to calculate the amount of calcium ions present. The concentration units used to measure the
water hardness is normally parts per million (ppm.) In this experiment you will measure calcium carbonate
(CaCO3) in ppm. (One part per million is the same as 1 mL/L.) We will be able determine the hardness of your
water sample by measuring the volume of your water and the volume (in mL) of the EDTA solution used to
react with all of the calcium in the water sample. We will calculate the ppm of calcium carbonate in your water
sample by using the following calculation

Procedure:

1. Bring at least 100 mL of filtered water.

2. Pour 25 mL of the water sample into a 250 mL flask.

3. Obtain 25 mL of DISTILLED water and add it to the same flask. (This water will not affect the titration, but
it makes the endpoint easier to recognize.)

4. Using an eye-dropper, add 20 drops of the pH 10 solution (called a buffer) to the same flask.

5. Using a spatula, add a pea size amount of indicator (in the form of a powder) to the same flask. The color of
the solution should be red.

6. Clean and fill your buret with the EDTA solution and record the initial volume.
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7. Titrate until the solution has changed color from red to blue. When this happens record the final volume.

8. Repeat steps 1-6 three more times. Calculate the ppm of CaCO3 for each sample and then calculate the
average value for these three trials.

Titration 1 2 3
Volume of water 25 25 25
sample (mL)
Final burette 100 100 100
reading of EDTA
solution (mL)
Final burette 98.2 98.1 98.2
reading of EDTA
solution (mL)
Volume of EDTA 1.8 1.9 1.8
added (mL)
ppm of CaCO3 72 76 72
Average ppm of 73.33
CaCO3
Table 2: Readings of titration experiment.

Results:

Clearly we can see that filtered water is moderately hard as the average ppm of CaCo3 is 73.33 which is
between the range 61-120.

5.2 TESTING OF TURBIDITY OF WATER

Brief Summary:

The measure of water's cloudiness. This test measures turbidity by comparing a turbid sample with a clear
sample, then adding drops of a special clouding solution to the clear sample until it appears as cloudy as the
turbid sample. The results are measured in Jackson Turbidity Units JTUs).

Testing for Turbidity:

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In this test, you will pour measured amounts of your filtered water and clear water into identical cylinders, each
with a black dot at the bottom. You will add small increments of a turbidity reagent to the clear water until the
dot appears as cloudy as the dot in the filter sample water. You will then record the amount of reagent you
added, and convert that amount to Jackson Turbidity Units (JTUs). The test relies on observation and
comparison, and can be subjective. Several groups should perform this test to confirm the results. If the results
vary widely, take a class average.

Length of Test: 5 minutes ,

Difficulty of Test: Simple Protective ,

Clothing: Rubber gloves

Procedure:

1. Fill one turbidity tube to the 50 mL line with clear water, either from the tap or bottled water.

2. Fill the other turbidity tube to the 50 mL line with the filter sample water.

3. Hold the tube side by side in the light, and look through them vertically (from the top down). Compare their
cloudiness by ob-serving the fuzziness of the black dot at the bottom of the tube

4. Shake the Standard Turbidity Reagent vigorously and add 0.5 mL (which is marked by a line on the pipette)
to the tube of clear water. The reagent will make the clear water turn slightly cloudy or turbid. Stir the water in
each tube with the stirring rods.

5. Compare the turbidity again by looking down into the water in each tube at the black dot. If the sample water
is still more turbid than the clear water, continue adding the Turbidity Reagent by 0.5 mL increments until both
tubes appear equally cloudy.

6. Compute the Jackson Turbidity Units of the sample. Each 0.5 mL of Turbidity Reagent that you added to the
clear water equals 5 Jackson Turbidity Units.

.5 mL = 5 JTU
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7. Record your results on the Data Recording Form.

8. Dispose of the waste liquid by pouring it down the drain.

9. Wash, dry and put away the test equipment.

Result:

Turbidity of filtered water is 0.3 JTU.

Figure 5.1: Turbidity test

CHAPTER 6: Filter Performance and Advantages

To address the second research objective outlined earlier, the filter performance was studied in regards to its
ability to provide a household with a significantly improved quality and sufficient supply of water for all
cooking and drinking needs. As for the supply issue, the flow rate of the BGF serves as an indicator to
determine whether it is able to filter enough water in a timely manner. The water quality tests performed are
also indicators to determine bacterial removal efficiency at a particular time in the BGF’s operational history.

6.1 FLOW RATE MODELING

EQUATION

In order to better understand the relationship of how the

flow rates behave over time a modeling equation was
calculated based on the adjusted‐average flow rate data for
the BGFs.).  By fitting an exponential trend line to the
adjusted‐average flow rate graphs for each filter an
equation of the form in Equation 1 was realized.

y=Ae-kx
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For use in this study, the variables are defined as: y representing the resultant flow rate, A – the starting flow
rate, e – the base of the natural logarithm (Euler’s number), k – the rate of exponential change, and x being
time.

Therefore, each of the twelve BGFs have an A and k value from which the mean value and standard deviation
are calculated from the set of filters.  The average values for A and k are used to determine the flow rate
modeling equation (Equation 2) and as such can be used to anticipate the expected behavior of a BGF in the
community.

Q=0.8709e-0.007967t

where t is time [days] and Q is Bio Glass filter flow rate [L/min]. Figure 40 presents the modeling equation as a
plotted average flow rate curve. Due to time‐ variable limitations in the source data, the run‐time is set at sixty
days. Also displayed are two average flow rate curves, plus and minus the standard deviation, respectively.
These represent the range of values from which the average curve was estimated from Equation 2. As with the
previous figures from this chapter the CAWST and IA recommended flow rates are plotted as a range from
which to compare the flow rates from the modeled curve. As expected the flow rate begins above 0.8 L/min; it
then proceeds to decrease with operating time.
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Figure 6.1: Recommended flow rates by the Center for Affordable Water and Sanitation Technology (CAWST) and
International Aid (IA) are also graphed at 0.6 L/min and 0.8 L/min, respectively. A general range of acceptable flow rates is
from a maximum of 1 L/min to a minimum that is determined by the user to be the lowest acceptable flow rate (e.g. 0.4 L/min).

6.2 ADVANTAGES OF BIO GLASS FILTER

WHAT IS BIO-GLASS FILTRATION?

• Water filters through a layer of crushed glass with gravel base

• Gravity is the driving force
• Collective pipes
• No chemicals added
• Small pore space traps and removes particles
• Use of activated charcoal contributes to the reduction of bacteria, viruses, protozoa and colloidal
particles.

*Long design life, Can use local materials and labor, Inexpensive and easy to construct, Minimal sludge
handling problems, Close operator supervision is not necessary, Filters enough water, Viable for the 21st
century, Reduces bacteria, cloudiness, and organic levels, Minimal power and chemical requirement

Figure 6.2: Advantages of Bio Glass Filter

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6.3 REASON FOR USING GLASS INSTEAD OF SAND

Figure 6.3: Molecular view

One of the main reason of using glass instead of sand could be the same molecular properties.

If we check the both the substances at microscopic level we could see that the sand and glass have almost same
molecular structure, therefore we could use glass instead of sand as filtering medium.

No matter what kind of filter media you use, the media does need to be changed so the filter keeps ridding the
pool water of contaminants. If you leave it too long between changes, the filter can become clogged and be
unable to do its job properly leaving your pool susceptible to cloudy water, imbalances or poor water
circulation. Making a decision of sand or glass can be tough but read our suggestions below to see what we
recommend.

 
Cleaning Ability
 Sand will filter to about 30 microns.
Glass will filter down to roughly 5-10 microns. Even finer particles than cartridge filters.

 Advantage: Glass

Longevity
Sand media needs to be changed out every 3-5 years depending on the water and debris load that is going
through the filter.
 54

Glass media lasts about 2-3 times as long as sand filter media. It lasts after 10 years of usage and after 10 years
you don’t have to change the whole layer of glass, you just have to change the upper layer of 5-10cms of glass
layer and layer below it, you can just wash it out using acid and reuse it.

Advantage: Glass

 
Backwashing
 Sand will require longer backwashing to clean the dirt out of the system as there is more volume of media to go
through.
Glass media will backwash quicker as the material is lighter and less dense, so it floats better, resulting in faster

cleaning. Faster cleaning also means less water usage. The surface of the glass is slightly negatively charged
giving it the ability to attract very fine particles. These charges are weak and will release the particles during
backwashing, which results in more efficient and cost-effective cleaning.

Advantage: Glass

“If you plan on staying with the house and pool for more than 6 years, glass media might be the choice as
you will not have to pay to replace it again.”

CHAPTER 7: CONCLUSIONS, FUTURE SCOPE &

REFERENCES

7.1 CONCLUSIONS

The four main objectives identified for this study were to:

1. Gastrointestinal diseases caused by unsafe water consumption can be avoided almost entirely.

2. It is possible to improve the quality of water consumed by households in isolated, rural and remote
communities.

3. Water disinfection requires relatively little investment in the demand and costs for the maintenance system.
 55

4. The craft bio-glass filter is as effective as the best commercial filters.

5. Deter mine the use of Bio Glass Filter in the society.

6. Determine installation guidelines for the Bio Glass Water Filter

7. Study the performance of the Bio Glass Water Filter in its ability to provide a household with a significantly
improved quality and sufficient supply of water for all cooking and drinking needs  

8. Analyze user acceptability and comprehension of Bio Glass Water Filter technology

9. Compare the advantages and disadvantages associated with the Bio Glass Water Filter to those of the
traditional Bio Sand Filter.

7.2 FUTURE SCOPE

By expanding upon the results and recommendations in this report, more research ideas should be considered
for implementation of future projects. This will not only add to the base of Bio Glass Filter knowledge but more
importantly will provide communities and implementing agencies with information to make better decisions
about the most appropriate POU water treatment technologies for their situation.  

Utilizing the recommendations above, a field study that installs and monitor bio glass filter and bio sand filters
within the same community would provide results to directly compare the two types of filters in terms of
performance and user preference. The outcomes provide a comparison of flow rate changes over time, removal
efficiency over time, and user acceptability. The results from all five groups concerning measured diarrheal
cases (through weekly household visits) could also be compared to determine the relative health impact.  

7.3 REFERENCES

CIA World Factbook. Available online at: www.cia.gov/library/publications/the‐world‐

factbook/geos/gh/html   

 Brin G. 2003. Evaluation of the Safe Water System in Jolivert Haiti by bacteriological testing andpublic
health survey. Masters of Engineering in Civil and Environmental Engineering Thesis, MIT Cambridge,
MA.
 56

 Encyclopedia Britannica Online. http://www.britannica.com/eb/article‐55172/Ghana

 Online Resource. http://www.sodis.ch/
 Baumgartner, J. (2006). The Effect of User Behavior on the Performance of Two Household Water
Filtration Systems. Masters of Science thesis. Department of Population and International Health,
Harvard School of Public Health. Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
 Mattelet, C. 2006. Household Ceramic Water Filter Evaluation Using Three Simple Low‐Cost Methods:
Membrane Filtration, 3M Petrifilm and Hydrogen Sulfide Bacteria in Northern Region, Ghana.
(Cambridge, MA: MIT Press)
 International Aid Press Release. 2007. International Aid (in collaboration with Cascade Engineering)
Launches Global Safe Water Initiative, Unveils Portable BioSand Filter for Use in the Developing
World. (IA Press. Spring Lake, MI.)
 Kaiser, Nathan, Kaida Lang, Marianne Maertens, & Ryan Snider. 2002. 2002 BSF evaluation report:
Summary of all Lab and Field Studies. Samaritan’s Purse, Canada. Available online at
http://www.cawst.org/technology/watertreatment/summaryoflabandfield.php   
 Johnson, S. 2007. Health and Water Quality Monitoring of Pure Home Water’s Ceramic Filter
Dissemination in the Northern Region of Ghana. (Cambridge, MA: MIT Press)

Appendix 1: MANUFACTURING AND INSTALLATION MONITORING

FORMS

Diffuser and Lid

There is a lid which covers the entire filter reservoir.

The diffuser plate fits correctly without leaving gaps around the edge for water to pass.

The holes in the diffuser plate are 3 mm (1/8”) or smaller

Filtration Glass Quality Control

 57

The glass sieves are in good condition, with no large holes or rips in the screen.

The prepared glass is clean.

The prepared glass stored properly to prevent contamination.

Record Keeping

The date of construction, materials used and details of units produced are recorded.

Any cracked, broken or unusable filters are recorded.

Appendix 2: SIEVE MESH

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