I collaborated with Kathryn Wason and Isaac Roberts to create an embedded Point-of-Use (POU) water treatment device that releases silver ions to neutralize bacteria in groundwater. We aimed to alleviate the South African Water Crisis by offering an affordable and user-friendly solution for combating waterborne illnesses and ensuring safe drinking water.

The device underwent field assessment in Limpopo, South Africa, conducted by the Department of Engineering Systems and Environment at the University of Virginia. Our system achieved a 2-log reduction in total coliform bacteria levels in household drinking water, according to the evaluation.

Engineered to fit in a standard bucket, the device employs an electric voltage signal to dispense a calibrated amount of silver ions into the water. These ions interact with the water to eliminate harmful bacteria, including Legionella, which causes Legionnaires' disease. Given its intended use in South Africa's rural areas, we prioritized ease of use and affordability in the device's design.

The project underscored the complexities and challenges involved in creating a production-ready embedded system, while also highlighting the ethical obligations engineers have towards their end-users.