The New York Times had an article yesterday about a different type of water cleaning device which caught my attention. Although it has been awhile since I have done some extended backcountry camping, water treated with iodine really was something I really never looked forward to. Yuck!The same technology that is used in water and wastewater treatment plants around the world, now fits in the palm of your hand. We are talking about a handheld microbe zapping ultraviolet light generator that disinfects water fast, called the SteriPEN™. Microbes don't have a chance. The UV light destroys DNA which prevents microbes from reproducing. The SteriPEN™ is good for 10,000 treatments or 2,500 gallons of water. The AA batteries are reported to last for about 100 treatments before they need to be replaced.
SteriPEN™ automatically delivers the appropriate dose duration and then shuts off. Dose time ranges from 38 to 48 seconds for 16 ounces to 90 seconds for 1 quart (or 1 liter). Now, UV does lose some of its effectiveness in murky water. In those situations it may be necessary to pre-filter the water. Not too bad!
You can buy it from Amazon for roughly $77, SteriPEN Classic Handheld Water Purifier
The reviews seem positive, but has anyone else used this?
