Using copper to purify water involves storing the water in a copper vessel, allowing the copper to leach into the water and kill bacteria. The process requires time, usually overnight or up to 48 hours for effective purification.
How Does Copper Purify Water?
Copper releases ions into the water, which have antimicrobial properties. These copper ions disrupt the cellular processes of bacteria, rendering them inactive and unable to reproduce. However, this process is not immediate.
Steps for Water Purification Using Copper
- Choose the Right Vessel: Use a solid copper vessel, such as a pot or jar. Avoid copper-lined or plated containers as they may not leach enough copper.
- Fill the Vessel: Fill the copper container with the water you want to purify.
- Storage Time: Store the water in the copper vessel for at least overnight, but preferably up to 48 hours. This allows sufficient copper to leach into the water and kill harmful bacteria.
- Note: According to research, using copper water bottles for on-the-go filling is less effective for purification.
- Consumption: After the storage period, the water is ready to drink.
Key Considerations
- Time is Crucial: Copper’s purifying action is not instantaneous. Sufficient storage time is critical for effective disinfection.
- Type of Vessel Matters: Solid copper vessels work best. Avoid those with linings or plating.
- Water Quality: Copper treatment is effective for microbial contamination but may not address chemical contaminants.
- Not a Quick Fix: Unlike modern filters, the copper purification method is not a quick way to clean water. It requires planning.
Advantages of Copper Purification
- Natural Method: Utilizes a natural material for purification.
- Effective against Bacteria: Proven to be effective at killing waterborne bacteria, when done correctly.
- Sustainable: Copper vessels can be used repeatedly, making it a sustainable method of water treatment.
Disadvantages of Copper Purification
- Time-Consuming: Requires extended storage times, making it unsuitable for immediate purification needs.
- May Not Remove All Impurities: Only effective against microbes, not chemicals or other pollutants.
- Potential Copper Toxicity: Although generally safe in small amounts, excessive copper intake can be harmful. Using the correct storage times should prevent this.
Example Scenario
Let's say you are camping and have access to a stream. You can fill your copper pot, let it sit overnight, and have safe drinking water by the morning. This is provided the water source is only contaminated with bacteria and not chemical pollutants.
