Bio-Sand Water Filters

We are also very excited about our new water project which is a new technology to Cambodia: bio-sand water filters. The bio-sand filtration systems are easy to construct, install, and maintain. They are an excellent alternative or compliment to pump wells. The mold is made of metal and costs $350, welded in Phnom Penh.

One mold has been donated for this project. The filtration media consists of a layer of gravel, a layer of course sand, and a layer of fine sand. There is a plastic diffuser plate above the water level to avoid disturbing the biolayer. It is the biolayer which holds the key bacteria essential to removing 99% of biological pathogens and 100% parasite.

Water poured through the filter processes at a rate of .6 liters per minute. The filter is made of cement at a total construction cost of approximately $45 per filter including the bio-sand media.