The biosand filter (BSF) is an adaptation of the traditional slow sand
filter, which has been used for community water treatment for hundreds of
years. The BSF is smaller and adapted for intermittent use, making it
suitable for households.
Water treatment is carried out by the sand inside the filter. The filter
container can be made of concrete, plastic or any other water-proof,
rust-proof and non-toxic material. The concrete filter box is cast from a
steel mold or made with pre-fabricated pipe.
The container is filled with layers of sieved and washed sand and gravel
(also referred to as filter media). There is a standing water height of 5
cm above the sand layer.
As in slow sand filters, a biological layer of microorganisms (also known
as the biolayer or schmutzedecke) develops at the sand surface, which
contributes to the water treatment.
A perforated diffuser plate or basin is used to protect the biolayer from
disturbance when water is poured into the filter.
> (even
> better if you can grow your own bamboo and make your own charcoal
> on-site!),
>
How do you make biochar or charcoal without asphyxiating yourself or
triggering endless asthma attacks
or passing out from carbon monoxide poising? Smoke exposure is a very
serious issue.