9
Further
development
of clay based
technologies
At the time of writing (August 2008) Practical Action
is attempting to develop a means of filtration for the
standard zeer (chapter 3). Despite the zeers immense
popularity it does have some drawbacks in relation
to the purity of the water. The water may become
contaminated from dust in the air or when people put
their hands in the water in order to fill up their cup.
In response to this Practical Action is looking at
developing a filter for the zeer. Initial tests are being
carried using two zeers (see picture 76) where one
zeer acts as a filter. The porous clay material allows
the water to percolate through the bottom of the zeer.
Normally this clean water is wasted although some
people collect it in a small container which they place
under the zeer. This idea is still in its experimental
stages.
If you are interested in this idea or anything else
highlighted in this booklet or need help with any other
technical enquiry you may have please contact the
Practical Answers team at Practical Action Sudan
through one of the contacts on the following page.
30
CLAY BASED
TECHNOLOGIES
Pic 76. Testing the Zeer in Zeer Filter.