Work done so far
- An initial test protocol was established and agreed as a basis for the feasibility study.
- Test materials containing fibers and particles were designed and samples were produced, but not yet tested because preparation and pre-tests are ongoing (see figures 1 to 6).
- Testing will include a variation of household washing machines and a selection of washing programme parameters (e.g. mechanics, water level, temperature).
- One basic element of the feasibility study is a standardized liquid detergent; different base loads are under investigation.
- First pre-tests were conducted to set up an appropriate measurement equipment (filter cascades with 3 different mesh sizes) to collect and filter the effluent from washing machines; use of interim tanks where to collect the water to filter is under consideration (see figure 7 and 8).
- Pre-tests are ongoing to solve issues of insoluble chemical and physical particles causing blockage of filters while running the tests (see figure 9).
- Several types of textiles (standard cotton, poly-cotton, polyester and acetate) were used in pre-tests so far.
*Find photos of figures 1-9 referenced above in the full paper in PDF format below.
Timeline
Due to intensive pre-tests the feasibility study will take longer than originally planned, but it will deliver more results to support the development of a standardized testing methodology.