Enabling Water Membrane Filtration Learning Experiences through 3D-Printable Modules

It is crucial to educate future generations about the treatment and conservation of one of our most important resources: water. In this article, we present an activity that explains to students and the general public of all ages what membrane filtration is, how it works, and real-life applications. The membrane filtration activity has a 3D-printable module, allowing students to learn about currently used technologies such as material science through 3D-printing and processes that remove contaminants in the micro- and nanoscale from different water sources, such as ocean and seawater, oil and gas produced water, and reused wastewater. The activity and concepts can go deeper depending on the students’ comprehension level. We present the activity at various levels of depth, ranging from simple concepts of particulate size to more advanced considerations of molecular-scale selectivity. Through this interactive activity, K–12 students also learn about the basics of water treatment, the importance of water quality, and water conservation. The activity has been evaluated positively during demonstrations in outreach events.