How it Works

The P3 process filters particles and solids like most filters do, but the P3 also kills the bacteria and viruses which cause disease and diarrhea.

Slow sand filters work through the formation of a gelatinous layer (biofilm) called the Schmutzdecke in the top few centimeters of the fine sand layer. The Schmutzdecke is formed in the first 10–20 days of operation and consists of bacteria, fungi, protozoa, Rotifera and a range of aquatic insect larvae. As a Schmutzdecke ages, more algae tend to develop and larger aquatic organisms may be present including some Bryozoa, snails and Annelid worms. The Schmutzdecke is the layer that provides the effective purification in potable water treatment, the underlying sand providing the support medium for this biological treatment layer. As water passes through the Schmutzdecke, particles of foreign matter are trapped in the mucilaginous matrix and dissolved organic material is adsorbed and metabolized by the bacteria, fungi and protozoa. The water produced from a well-managed slow sand filter can be of exceptionally good quality with 90-99% bacterial reduction.  (source: Wikipedia)

In fact , the P3 BioSand Bag Filter achieved laboratory certified results that showed 100% removal of fecal coliform and 99.999% removal of bacteria and virus.

Learn more from our testimonials below or view our test results information here.

See one of our end users describe how it works here :

Testimonials

The P3 BioSand Bag Filter delivers a proven method for potable water treatment in a way that is simple, green and portable – mostly comprised of locally sourced parts. Each 100 person capacity unit removes bacteria and viruses from untreated water, reducing water borne diseases.

Below video produced by CAR - Regional Autonomous Corporation, Colombia

Below, video from Cambodia - thanks to the Trailblazer Foundation