The easiest way to purify salt water for survival is by using a solar still.
Understanding Solar Still Purification
A solar still is a simple device that uses the sun's energy to evaporate water, leaving behind salt and other impurities. The resulting water vapor condenses on a cooler surface and is collected as purified drinking water. According to the provided reference, the solar still is the easiest method to purify saltwater when you're in the wild.
How to Make and Use a Solar Still
Here's how to create a basic solar still:
- Dig a pit: Find a suitable location and dig a bowl-shaped pit in the ground.
- Place a container: Put a smaller collection container in the center of the pit. This container should be able to catch the purified water.
- Add salt water: Pour the saltwater into the pit around the collection container, making sure not to get any in the collection container.
- Cover the pit: Cover the pit with a clear plastic sheet or tarp. Secure the edges with rocks, sand, or soil, creating a sealed environment.
- Place a weight: Place a small rock or weight in the center of the plastic sheet, creating a slight depression. This will help direct condensed water to drip into the collection container.
- Wait: Let the sun evaporate the saltwater. Water vapor will condense on the underside of the plastic and then drip into the collection container.
Benefits of Solar Still
- Simple: The solar still requires very few materials and is easy to construct.
- Effective: It effectively separates water from salt and other contaminants.
- Passive: It uses the sun's energy and doesn't require active monitoring or fuel.
- Adaptable: The design is adaptable to different situations and resources.
Alternative Purification Methods
The reference indicates that if you cannot boil the water, the sun is your best option. While a solar still is the most efficient method, you could also simply allow the salt water to evaporate in the sun, and attempt to capture the condensation, but it may not be as efficient as a solar still.
Practical Tips
- Use the clearest plastic you can find to maximize sunlight penetration.
- The pit needs to be deep enough to allow enough water to evaporate.
- Make sure the weight in the middle of the plastic isn't too heavy.
- Consider your surroundings: a sunny location will result in more water purification.
