Which treatment technology is best?
When it comes to effective water treatment, there are only a handful of technologies that have proven themselves over years of use. Following is a quick look at several, along with the strengths & weaknesses of each...
Structured Matrix
An electrostatic-based approach proprietary to General Ecology products. This technology has been approved to the 'purifier level' by the EPA, and has been the only technology that has been able to maintain its certification each time the EPA raises the bar.
Strengths...
Compact, lightweight, purification, removal of pathogens
Weaknesses...
A little more expensive, shorter cartridge life than micro filters
Reverse Osmosis
A multi-stage filtration system. Expensive muti-stage versions can provide very clean water, but cannot be certified as purifiers due to the potential for cross-contamination.
Strengths...
Common
Weaknesses...
Large, expensive to maintain, large amount of waste water produced, not a purifier
Silver Impregnated Ceramic
A top-end form of micro-filter. Better & longer lived than grocery store activated carbon filters. Silver prevents formation of bacteria in the cartridge.
Strengths...
Large cartridge capacity, can be cleaned in the field
Weaknesses...
Expensive, not a purifier
UV (Ultraviolet) Sterilization
UV systems & the new UV pens for emergency kits & hiking have hit the market in the past few years, and there is marketing hype that they are akin to boiling your water - not true. We recommend that they be used as a secondary stage of purification for filters, if used at all.
Strengths...
Compact
Weaknesses...
Leaves dead critters in the water to be consumed, no ability to ensure complete sterilization, requires batteries
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