Virus removal from water by a portable water treatment device

Abstract

Objective. - Few portable point-of-use (POU) devices are available for treatment of water by recreational enthusiasts who may obtain water from untreated sources (rivers, lakes, etc.). This study evaluated a POU device containing a structure matrix capable of removing viruses from water without the use of a disinfectant. Methods. - The unit was evaluated for the removal of poliovirus type 1, rotavirus SA-11, human norovirus, and a wide range of different coliphages exhibiting different isoelectric points, sizes, and shapes. Results. - The removal of all virus types tested exceeded 99.99%. Conclusion. - The tested unit complied with the criteria guidelines for virus removal under the US Environmental Protection Agency's "Guide Standard and Protocol for Testing of Microbiological Water Purifiers".