Small water purification packets developed

[phantom power]

ATLANTA, March 29 (UPI) -- Chemists say they have developed a powerful household water purification system that is available in the size of a ketchup packet.

Procter and Gamble Co. researchers say the packets provide the cleansing power of an industrial water treatment plant by acting as a chemical filter that can be added to highly contaminated water, dramatically reducing pathogen-induced diarrhea -- the top killer of children in much of the developing world.

The company has been developing the packets since 1995 in collaboration with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The researchers say the packets also show promise for boosting water safety during emergencies and natural disasters, such as earthquakes or hurricanes, when water purity is suddenly compromised.

http://www.sciencedaily.com/upi/index.php?feed=Science&article=UPI-1-20060329-17281600-bc-us-purification.xml

[Warpy]

1. This is GREAT NEWS

for people living along the coasts and prone to hurricanes on one side and earthquakes on the other.

It's also great news for much of the undeveloped world.

Let's hope they're cheap enough to be used in the latter.

[Taxloss]

2. When I was in India

I used tiny purification pills - basically chlorine. They made the water taste a bit swimming-pool, a bit, but they were proof against disease.

[phantom power]

4. I do wonder how they compare to good old fashioned iodine tabs.

[Taxloss]

5. Well, they were very very small and quite quick-acting.

As I say, they made the water taste a little chlorine-y, but only a hint, and that's better than dysentery.

[donsu]

3. great! need to add these to my cat. 6 storm/event supplies

nt