Can product design methods improve the long-term adoption and sustainability of solar disinfection technologies?

Harlow, Richard (2024) Can product design methods improve the long-term adoption and sustainability of solar disinfection technologies? Doctoral thesis, Buckinghamshire New University (Awarded by Staffordshire University).

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Abstract

Safe and regular access to potable drinking water remains a challenge for a significant portion of the global population. While various technologies can reliably treat water, their long-term adoption and functionality are often limited. Solar Disinfection (SoDis) leverages Ultraviolet (UV) and Infrared (IR) radiation from sunlight to neutralise pathogens in groundwater sources. This thesis explores whether product design methods can enhance the long-term adoption and sustainability of SoDis technologies through the utilisation of a grounded theory approach combined with action research methods. By delving into existing literature to determine the positive and negative design features of SoDis and ceramic filtration technologies, the study details design guidelines for the improvement of existing water treatment technologies. Through this process, it also identifies how SoDis and ceramic filtration technologies can be synergistically combined to address each of their technical shortcomings. Further literature reviews combined with an in-depth thematic analysis identify recurring limitations hindering the widespread adoption of SoDis, such as cultural mismatches, maintenance issues, and user rejection due to taste or appearance. Beyond identifying these constraints, the research identifies a gap in the existing SoDis literature, which has typically provided guidance for the technical performance of SoDis systems and the implementation of theoretical SoDis containers while not accounting for users' wider needs. This thesis offers recommendations to address these needs by redesigning SoDis systems and involving end-users in the developmental phase, ensuring better alignment with community requirements. Conducted concurrently with the Horizon 2020 funded WATERSPOUTT project, this research engaged with prospective users and informed design decisions through insights from local experts and community feedback. This engagement enabled the iteration and development of a Combined Solar Ceramic Water Treatment System (CSCWTS) for implementation in the Chikwawa region of Malawi. Testing under various conditions evaluated the effectiveness of the CSCWTS in improving water quality and user acceptance. Results demonstrate that the CSCWTS can achieve significant turbidity reduction, temperature gains, and pathogen reduction, making it a viable option for safe drinking water provision. The study also identifies areas for further improvement, such as refining the design of ceramic elements and optimising the system for local manufacturing capabilities. Further research supported the WATERSPOUTT project in the form of user interviews, observations, and ergonomic testing in the Tigray region of Ethiopia. Key findings indicate that involving local communities in the design process and addressing cultural and contextual factors are crucial for the successful adoption of water treatment technologies. As a primary outcome, the thesis proposes a comprehensive user-centred design and implementation framework for SoDis technologies. This framework offers design recommendations for the development of new SoDis, filtration, and other HWTS technologies, and supports designers, interventionists, and researchers in creating more user-centred and sustainable water treatment interventions. This research contributes to the broader field of sustainable water treatment solutions by highlighting the role of product design in enhancing technology adoption and sustainability. The findings and recommendations offer valuable insights for future interventions aimed at improving access to safe drinking water in developing regions.

Item Type:	Thesis (Doctoral)
Keywords:	SoDis, Design, Filtration, Water, Ceramics
Depositing User:	RED Unit Admin
Date Deposited:	23 Oct 2024 12:48
Last Modified:	23 Oct 2024 12:48
URI:	https://bnu.repository.guildhe.ac.uk/id/eprint/19367

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