FAQ

What type of tree should I use for my sapwood filter?

Gymnosperms, coniferous trees, like pine, fir, cedar, spruce. It is important to only create filters with trees that are known to be edible or non-toxic. The best option in our opinion is the common pine tree.
Do I need a pump to drive the flow of the filter?

Sapwood filters work by gravity. Pumps are not needed. For household use, attaching it to the water tap will give plenty of pressure for sufficient flow rates.
What kind of contaminants does the sapwood filter?

Sapwood filters provide >3-log removal of E. coli and MS-2 phage and >4-log of removal of rotavirus (based on tests conducted with filters made from ginkgo having 4 cm diameter and ~1 cm thickness operated under a 1.2 meter gravity head with General Test Water containing World Health Organization (WHO) prescribed concentrations of E. coli (>106 CFU/mL) and MS-2 phage (>105 PFU/mL) and National Sanitation Foundation (NSF)-prescribed concentrations of rotavirus (>104 PFU/mL)). Sapwood also filters physical contaminants like dust. The efficacy of these filters against chemical contaminants has not been evaluated yet.
What is the capacity of sapwood filters?

The capacity of sapwood filters depends on water quality, filter design, and use of pre-filtration. Around 10 liters/ hour in good conditions.