Date of Award

Spring 2025

Thesis Type

Open Access

Degree Name

Honors Bachelor of Arts

Department

Biology

Sponsor

Dr. Sabrice Guerrier

Committee Member

Dr. Pedro Bernal

Committee Member

Dr. Paul Stephenson

Abstract

Access to safe drinking water remains a global challenge, affecting over 2 billion people. Fecal coliform contamination poses serious health risks, particularly in developing regions like the Dominican Republic and Rwanda. Rollins College professors have implemented Field Studies to support water filter distribution in these areas. This study evaluates the optimization of Household Water Treatment and Safe Storage (HWTS) systems used in the WASH-DR and Rwanda-Rural Education Field Studies, focusing on Dr. Bernal’s chlorination and filtration system and Rwanda’s ceramic filters. A key innovation is the integration of the MadiDrop+, a silver-impregnated ceramic tablet that releases antimicrobial silver ions, as a lightweight alternative to carbon cartridges. Experimental results show that MadiDrop+ alone moderately reduces microbes, but when combined with chlorine, achieves complete coliform elimination while maintaining chlorine residuals within WHO safety guidelines. Comparative testing of the Umeringa and Rwanda ceramic filters identifies the Rwanda model as superior in microbial removal, durability, and flow rate. Adding MadiDrop+ to the Rwanda filter further improves disinfection without compromising water quality. This combination of ceramic filtration, silver ion treatment, and controlled chlorination forms a multi-barrier system that meets WHO standards for safe household water. These findings support the potential for scalable, cost-effective, and transportable HWTS solutions to improve water quality and reduce diarrheal disease in vulnerable communities. Future research should explore long-term user adherence and broader community implementation to sustain health impacts.

Rights Holder

Hamza Zeini

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