Multi-layered composite filter media and pleated filter element constructed therefrom

Abstract

A multi-layered pleated filter element for filtering drinking water is disclosed which includes at least one upstream glass fiber layer for pre-filtration, a nanofiber membrane layer for bacteria retention, and at least one downstream positively charged microporous membrane layer for virus retention.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]The subject application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62 / 121,605, filed Feb. 27, 2015, which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]1. Field of the Invention[0003]The subject invention is directed to fluid filtration, and more particularly, to a multi-layered composite filter media for filtering drinking water, a pleated filter element formed from the composite filter media, a filter cartridge containing the pleated filter element, a counter top dispenser utilizing the filter cartridge and a portable bottle utilizing the filter cartridge.[0004]2. Description of Related Art[0005]Drinking water in many areas of the world contains dissolved chemicals and suspended particulate material, as a consequence of run-off and environmental contamination. Some of these chemicals and particulates have been associated with adverse physiological effects. Others...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The invention is a new and useful multi-layered composite filter media that can remove contaminants that affect the taste and odor of water, as well as visible particulate matter and micro-organisms like bacteria and viruses. The filter media includes at least one pre-filtration layer, a bacteria retention layer, and at least one virus retention layer. The filter media can be used in a cartridge or a portable bottle for filtering drinking water. The technical effects of the invention include improved taste, odor, and safety of drinking water.

Problems solved by technology

Some of these chemicals and particulates have been associated with adverse physiological effects.

However, these processes may introduce other types of undesirable chemical contaminants into the water.

There is a general view that municipal water treatment plants often fail to adequately deal with these problems.

While filter cartridges containing granular activated carbon are known to be good at removing contaminants that affect taste, odor of the filtrate, and visible particulate matter, such filter cartridges generally are not fine enough to remove bacteria or viruses.

Therefore, water discharged after a long period of non-use of a carbon-based filter cartridge may be contaminated with living organisms.

These permanent housings are often located in relatively poorly accessible locations, such as under a sink or in the basement of a home, and often require special tools in order to gain access to the filter residing in the housing.

As noted above, while carbonaceous filter elements are known to be good at removing contaminants that affect taste, odor of the filtrate, and visible particulate matter, such filters generally are not fine enough to remove bacteria or viruses.

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