Title:

Rainwater Filtration System for a Remote Island

Poster

Preview Converted Images may contain errors

Abstract

Star Island, a remote seasonal community off the coast of New Hampshire, currently relies on desalination and imported water to meet drinking water demands. To alleviate pressure on the current systems and reduce costs, this project evaluates rainwater harvesting as a supplemental potable water source. The existing rainwater system is currently offline due to performance and reliability limitations. Three treatment alternatives were developed and compared to the current system: a three-layer multimedia filter, a seven-layer multimedia filter, and a micron filter followed by a granular activated carbon filter. Alternatives were evaluated based on cost, energy usage, operational complexity, and alignment with client goals. Results indicate that the three-layer multimedia filter followed by UV disinfection and chlorine injection provides the best overall balance of treatment performance, cost, and ease of operation. This system was designed and sized to meet seasonal water demands while fitting within the available space. Additional design work included verifying compliance with drinking water standards and developing a seasonal maintenance plan. Finally, the cost per gallon of treated water per season was calculated to assess long-term feasibility compared to existing supply options.

Authors

First Name Last Name
Elizabeth DelGiudice
Aiden Tripaldi
Emma Doyle
Isabella Dee

Advisors:

Full Name
Matthew Ferby

File Count: 1


Leave a comment

Comments are viewable only by submitter



Submission Details

Conference URC
Event Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering (ISE)
Department Civil & Environmental Engineering (ISE)
Group Civil and Environmental Engineering- Group C
Added April 20, 2026, 4:32 p.m.
Updated April 20, 2026, 4:32 p.m.
See More Department Presentations Here