Question

Water purification and water purity test

Answer 1

Analyses for many physical, chemical and microbiological contaminants can be carried out in the field or in a temporary laboratory using specifically designed products that are portable and relatively easy to use. A significant advantage of field analysis is that tests are carried out on fresh samples whose characteristics have not been contaminated or otherwise changed as a result of being stored and transported over long distances (CAWST 2009). Read more about the specific test kits in CAWST (2009).

 

How to choose a portable test kit. Source: WAGTECH (n.y.)

Portable water quality test kits should have the following characteristics (CAWST 2009):

Easy to use with simple instructionsSmall and easy to transportNo restrictions on air transportFast resultsLimited requirement for distilled or deionised waterDilution not necessaryDoes not require calibrationRobust (limited effects from UV light,shock,humidity or temperature)Can test several parametersEasy to repair or replaceLimited consumables or consumables are easy to obtain

Answer 2

In an age when bottled water is readily available, many people are wary of what comes from their kitchen faucet. Given that drinking tap water is far less expensive than regularly buying bottled water, it is worthwhile to find out what is coming from the tap at the kitchen sink and whether or not it is healthy to drink. Contaminates typically found in tap water include mercury, copper, microorganisms, and numerous kinds of disinfectants, fertilizers, and medications. Understand how to test water purity via the three main testing procedures: with a test kit, with tests run by your water supplier, or by a professional laboratory.


Fill a clean, clear glass with water from your tap.

Hold the glass up to the light and take a look at the water. Is it clear or cloudy? Can you see particles floating in the water or settling to the bottom of the glass? Anything other than clear liquid could be a sign of bacterial or particulate contamination.

Smell the water. Does it smell like rotten eggs, a swimming pool, nail polish remover, or anything else unpleasant? These odors could indicate the presence of high chlorine content, organic solvents, or naturally-occurring sulfur.