Reused fabrics in three-layer filters: performance and modeling

Abstract

This work investigates the mechanical water purification process, especially by combining a cartridge filter with a textile layer and a granular loading to enhance water filtration from a source area. Based on previous experiment results, a conceptual three-layer filter (textile–granular–cartridge) is proposed to widen the effective cut-off range and distribute fouling across layers. This work aims to develop a mathematical model of the sequential water filtration in the proposed three-stage water purification filter to determine the change in head (pressure) losses and the concentration of suspended solids in water over time and along the thickness (radius) of the filter loading. The scientific novelty lies in integrating secondary textile resources into a structured multilayer design and outlining a physics-based modeling framework with attachment–detachment kinetics and time-evolving porosity area. The practical value of this study is in demonstrating the feasibility of circular-economy principles in water treatment, where textile waste can be reused as a functional material, reducing costs and environmental burden. The findings provide a foundation for the design of adaptive and portable water purification systems that can operate reliably in emergency conditions and contribute to the sustainable development of urban water infrastructure. This approach also enhances the scalability of filtration systems, making them suitable for diverse urban and industrial applications. The model supports predictive maintenance, optimizing filter regeneration cycles for sustained performance.