IIT Guwahati's Revolutionary Water Treatment System Tackles Groundwater Contamination

Researchers at IIT Guwahati have developed a cost-effective water treatment system capable of removing fluoride and iron from groundwater. Treating 20,000 litres daily, it offers a sustainable solution for regions with limited access to safe water. Published in ACS ES&T Water, the system's pilot was installed with success in Assam.

Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati have developed a groundbreaking water treatment system designed to remove fluoride and iron contaminants from groundwater. Capable of treating up to 20,000 litres of contaminated water per day, this innovative system provides an affordable solution for areas struggling with access to safe drinking water.

This pioneering research was detailed in a paper co-authored by Prof. Mihir Kumar Purkait and his team in the esteemed ACS ES&T Water journal. The system employs a four-step process that includes aeration, electrocoagulation, flocculation and settling, followed by filtration. According to Prof. Purkait, the electrocoagulation process is instrumental, utilizing charged ions to bind with contaminants effectively.

Successfully tested in field conditions for 12 weeks, the system achieved 94% removal of iron and 89% removal of fluoride, meeting Indian safety standards. The system's affordability, priced at Rs. 20 per 1000 liters, and its minimal maintenance requirements highlight its practicality. Further enhancements, including solar power utilization and real-time monitoring, aim to bolster its effectiveness in remote areas.

(With inputs from agencies.)