ABSTRACT
SODIS
is a very simple, low cost and effective technology for
drinking water disinfection at household level. It uses
solar energy to destroy pathogenic microorganisms present
in water which are the cause of water borne diseases. There
are several technical and social factors that limits the
SODIS efficiency and application therefore it needs to be
assessed before promotion of SODIS. In this regard, this
research work has been carried out to measure the effectiveness
of SODIS in Nepal and assess the social implications for
its promotion. SODIS efficiency was also investigated in
different ecological regions under different climatic conditions.
Among the different treatment options, best results were
obtained in clear bottles placed on reflective surface.
The study found highly positive correlation between fecal
coliform reduction rate and solar intensity. SODIS was found
to be most effective in the mountain region followed by
in the hill and terai. This study did not find a significant
relationship between temperature and elimination rate of
faecal coliforms. SODIS after two days exposure shows the
best removal efficiency during poor weather conditions.
Aside from the assessment of several other technical issues,
this report has also recommended several areas for future
research and prepared a guideline for implementation of
SODIS at community level.
Keywords:
Solar Water Disinfection, Water Treatment, Appropriate Technology,
developing countries
