How do LifeStraw Membrane Ultrafilters (Water Purifiers) work?

LifeStraw ultrafilter pores are 0.02 microns—10 times smaller than microfilter pores. Both technologies work via the exact mechanism, but ultrafilters also block viruses due to their smaller pores.

When dirty water enters the ultrafilter, the microscopic pores block viruses, bacteria, parasites, microplastics, dirt, and other turbidity. Clean water passes through the pores in the membranes, making the water microbiologically safe to drink. Because of the smaller pore size, ultrafilters often have a slower flow rate or require more pressure to purify water than microfilters. 

LifeStraw Membrane Ultrafilters are capable of removing 99.999% (log 5) of viruses (including Rotavirus), 99.999999% (log 8) of bacteria (including E. coli and Salmonella), 99.999% (log 5) of parasites (Giardia and Cryptosporidium), and 99.999% (log 5) of microplastics.

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