Scientists Develop Paper Filtration System

A simple sheet of paper, called a Mille-Feuille Filter, has been developed to filter viruses out of drinking water. Scientists at Uppsala University have been able to create this special type of paper that offers a cheaper way to make drinking water safe in developing countries.

The new sheet of paper uses layers of thin cellulose nanofibers that are developed from green algae, according to Science Alert. While researchers have been able to find ways of purifying water, finding ways to remove small viruses has continued to be a problem.

"With a filter material directly from nature, and by using simple production methods, we believe that our filter paper can become the affordable global water filtration solution and help save lives," Albert Mihranyan said. "Our goal is to develop a filter paper that can remove even the toughest viruses from water as easily as brewing coffee."

The research for the paper was carried out in collaboration with German virologists, according to Mihranyan. Water-borne infections are one of the biggest causes of global mortality, particularly for children under five. Science Alert reports that more than 748 million people around the world do not have access to safe drinking water and basic sanitation.

Of those water-borne infections, viruses are particularly dangerous. They are difficult to remove physically because of their size, and they can be resistant to disinfectants such as chlorine.

Filtration is a more effective and energy-efficient purification option, but some of the best versions can be expensive. The paper is long-lasting and can be easily distributed to where it is needed most.

"Safe drinking water is a problem not only in the low-income countries,"Mihranyan said. "Massive viral outbreaks have also occurred in Europe in the past, including Sweden."

Filters could also be used in medicine to help produce therapeutic proteins and vaccines, he added.