Saving Polluted Gems: Restoring Aquatic Treasures

Water and gemstones don't mix. While some gemstones are more water-resistant than others, extended exposure to water can cause damage to most gems, either by dissolving or cracking them or causing their surfaces to rust or release toxins. In the fictional universe, water is also harmful to gems. While gems don't need water to survive, they can use it in manufacturing. However, as they are rocks, water will erode them over time. To get polluted gems out of water, one method is to use a water distiller to run polluted water into a tank. Another method is to heat the water to 75°C or higher to kill the germs, and then pipe it through a water purifier.

Characteristics and Values Table

Heating polluted water to 75C+ to kill germs

Heating polluted water to 75°C and above is an effective way to kill germs, but the precise temperature required depends on the type of germs present in the water. Enveloped viruses such as influenza and coronaviruses are heat-sensitive and can be destroyed at relatively lower temperatures of around 60°C (140°F). Non-enveloped viruses, including Norovirus and Poliovirus, often require temperatures closer to 85°C (185°F) for effective inactivation.

In a study by food scientists at Ohio State University, it was found that a temperature of 75.2°C (170°F) reduced Escherichia coli and Listeria innocua to acceptable levels when combined with proper washing techniques. This temperature is uncomfortably hot for hands but not high enough to kill most germs. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends a wash solution temperature of 110°F (43.3°C) for dishwashing by hand in a commercial food establishment.

To heat-treat polluted water, you can use a stove or an electric kettle to reach the desired temperature. If you're heating a large volume of water, you may need to use a larger heat source or heat the water in batches. It's important to use a thermometer to ensure that the water reaches and maintains the desired temperature for a sufficient duration.

While heating water to 75°C and above can be effective in killing germs, it's important to note that certain materials, such as plastic and wood, can be damaged by high heat. Additionally, some germs produce heat-resistant spores that require additional chemicals or treatments to neutralize. Combining heat treatment with disinfectant products or filters can enhance the effectiveness of germ removal.

Using chlorine to kill germs

Chlorine is a powerful disinfectant that can kill most bacteria, viruses, and parasites when added to water. Chlorine-based compounds are the only disinfectants that can efficiently kill microorganisms during water treatment and maintain the quality of the water as it flows from the treatment plant to the consumer's tap.

When you add chlorine disinfectant to water, a chemical reaction occurs, and a weak acid called hypochlorous acid is released. This acid can penetrate the cell walls of microbes like bacteria and viruses, allowing it to attack and kill germs effectively. Chlorine works by collapsing proteins in bacterial cells, causing bacteria to die. It is also able to kill viruses, although the method it uses is less understood. Some experts believe that chlorine damages proteins inside virus cells, making it difficult for them to enter human cells and cause infection.

Chlorinated water does not need to be boiled to be safe for drinking. However, if you are using chlorine bleach products to disinfect water, it is important to follow the instructions on the label for safe handling and storage. The water should have a slight chlorine odor. If it doesn't, repeat the dosage and let it stand for another 15 minutes before use. If the chlorine taste is too strong, pour the water from one clean container to another and let it stand for a few hours before use.

Chlorine is an effective household disinfectant and is commonly used in cleaning products for dishes, laundry, and bathrooms. It is also used to purify other materials, such as the silicon in computer circuits and the titanium used to make artificial replacement joints.

Using a steam geyser to heat water

Steam geysers are a great way to get an endless supply of hot, germ-free water. They are a type of water heater that uses a gas burner or an electric element to heat water. Geysers are quite rare, as they require a combination of water, heat, and fortuitous plumbing, but they are very useful when available.

To use a steam geyser to heat water, first make sure it is installed by a professional and powered on. Then, set the temperature to a safe level, typically between 50-60°C, to prevent burns and save energy. You can also consider installing timers or smart controllers to manage usage and reduce energy consumption.

Keep in mind that geysers output steam at around 110°C and water at 95°C, so you will need to be prepared to deal with very hot water. Insulating the geyser is important to prevent it from heating up the surrounding area. If you need to cool the water, you can try digging up ice and putting it in compactors inside your water tank, along with a pump and a temperature sensor.

Another way to use a steam geyser is to divert it into an ice biome to get free cooling and make clean water. This can be a long-term project, but it can be an effective way to get clean water without using as much power.

By following these instructions and staying mindful of the high temperatures involved, you can effectively use a steam geyser to heat water and even create clean water from polluted sources.

Using a water distiller to purify water

Water distillers are an effective method to purify water for several uses. Water distillers mimic nature’s hydrological cycle, where evaporation and condensation strive to maintain a balance in environmental water quality.

Water distillers are devices that purify water by transforming it into vapour and then condensing it back into a liquid. The process involves boiling water and then collecting the steam in a tank or jar for drinking. Because only the steam is collected, virtually every contaminant is left in the boiling chamber, resulting in 99% pure water. Water distillers can remove arsenic, nitrates, lithium, pesticides, fertilizer, pharmaceuticals, and even uranium.

Distilled water is suitable for laboratories, medical use, and specialized industrial processes. Distillers are also a good option if your water sources contain a wide variety of contaminants, as you won't need to invest in multiple purification methods. Distillers are also a more natural way to purify water without chemical additives such as chlorine.

However, water distillers are less energy-efficient than other water purification methods and have a slower rate of production. Distillers are also more expensive than simple carbon filters or reverse osmosis systems. Distilled water also lacks the natural taste of water and can taste flat.

Keeping polluted water separate

Properly Dispose of Waste:

One of the most critical aspects of keeping polluted water separate is properly disposing of waste. This includes not flushing non-biodegradable items, such as baby wipes, plastic, and medications, down the toilet. Instead, dispose of them in the trash. Additionally, be mindful of what you pour into storm sewers, as the waste often goes untreated before being released into local waterways.

Maintain Your Vehicles:

Well-maintained vehicles can play a significant role in keeping polluted water separate. Regularly check your car for leaks and properly dispose of any fluids, such as oil, coolant, and antifreeze. When washing your car, opt for a car wash instead of hosing it down yourself. Car washes are required to drain their wastewater into sewer systems for treatment, ensuring that pollutants are removed before discharge.

Manage Stormwater Runoff:

Stormwater runoff is a significant source of water pollution. To keep polluted stormwater separate from clean water, use porous materials like gravel, paver stones, or wood on your property. These materials can help capture and filter stormwater before it enters nearby water bodies. If you have a hard surface like a driveway, consider digging a shallow trench along the border and adding plants or gravel to catch the runoff.

Landscape with Care:

Landscaping can be a powerful tool in keeping polluted water separate. Create buffers of native plants, grass, or ground covers along streams and lakes to filter stormwater runoff and prevent erosion. Avoid using lawn fertilizers containing phosphorus, as the excess can be carried by rainwater into nearby water bodies, causing environmental issues. Always test your lawn to see if it genuinely needs phosphorus before applying any fertilizers.

Pick Up After Your Pets:

Pet waste can be a source of bacteria and pollutants. Be a responsible pet owner by scooping up your pet's waste and disposing of it properly. Use recycled-plastic pet-waste bags, and throw them into trash cans. This simple act helps keep polluted water separate from clean water sources.

Compost and Recycle:

Composting and recycling play a crucial role in keeping polluted water separate. Create a compost pile from vegetable scraps and yard waste instead of disposing of them down the drain or into waterways. Additionally, reduce your plastic consumption and recycle or reuse plastic items whenever possible. This helps prevent plastic pollution from contaminating water sources.

Frequently asked questions