Distillation
The distillation process involves boiling water and collecting the steam produced in the process. As the steam cools down, it turns back to water, leaving behind the contaminants and impurities in the boiling pot. Collecting the steam produced in the process creates pure freshwater. All you need is a pot with a tight-fitting lid and a condenser, which could be made of copper or stainless steel. Place the brackish water in the pot and heat it until it boils. Once it starts boiling, place the condenser on the pot’s lid with the tube facing down into another container. Collect the distilled water by allowing the steam to condense within the tube and into the container below.
Reverse Osmosis
Reverse osmosis is another popular technique to make brackish water drinkable. Reverse osmosis involves using a semi-permeable membrane that filters out impurities, leaving pure water behind. A reverse osmosis system is relatively affordable and small enough to be used in your home or on the go. Along with a good filtration system, a reverse osmosis system requires a power source or battery, making it an excellent choice for outdoor activities. Reverse osmosis is an efficient way of obtaining freshwater from brackish water without the need for intense heat or the use of aggressive chemicals.
Solar Stills
Solar stills are easy to set up, do not require much effort to operate, and are an excellent option when in a survival scenario with limited resources. All you need for solar stills is a clear plastic sheet, a weight, and a container. Dig a hole in the ground and place the container inside. Then, place the weight in the center of the container and cover it with a clear plastic sheet. As the sun shines on the plastic, the brackish water will evaporate, collecting on the underside of the plastic sheet. The moisture then drips into the container.
Boiling
One of the most popular and straightforward methods of making brackish water drinkable is boiling. Boiling water helps destroy harmful bacteria, viruses, and parasites that can cause diseases. When boiling brackish water, it is essential to let the water boil for at least ten minutes before allowing it to cool. Boiling can help reduce the salt level in brackish water.
Chemical Treatment
Chemical treatment is a simple method of treating brackish water that does not require complicated equipment or machinery. The most common chemicals used are iodine and chlorine, which are available in tablets that can be added to the water. An iodine tablet is typically sufficient for small amounts of water in individual backpacking scenarios, while chlorine tablets are better suited for larger water volumes. However, this method is not suitable for long-term drinking water as it can be harmful to the human body if used often.
In conclusion, the availability of freshwater is essential, and being able to convert brackish water into freshwater can be an essential lifesaver in a dire situation. There are many ways of making brackish water drinkable, but it is essential to choose the method that works best for the scenario at hand. With the methods mentioned above, obtaining freshwater in survival situations can be effortless. So, when in doubt, choose one of these methods, and stay hydrated and safe.