#sand & carbon filters

[apexwatersolutions]

What are the benefits of using a cabinet water softener in your home?

A cabinet water softener is a compact and effective way to manage hard water in your house. It eliminates minerals that create limescale, such as calcium and magnesium, and has various benefits:

Protects Appliances & Plumbing

Soft water minimizes limescale accumulation in pipes and appliances, increasing their longevity and efficiency. This results in fewer repairs and replacements, which saves you money over time.

Healthy Skin and Hair

Soft water is softer on the skin and hair, avoiding the dryness and irritation caused by hard water. It makes your skin feel smoother and your hair softer and shinier.

Better Cleaning Results

Soft water makes soaps, shampoos, and detergents lather better, clean more efficiently, and rinse more easily. It also removes streaks and spots from dishes, glasses, and tiles.

Compact and Space-Saving

The cabinet design combines the softener and brine tank in a single unit, making it perfect for houses with limited space.

Cost and energy savings

Soft water enhances appliance performance and saves energy consumption, particularly in water heaters. It also reduces maintenance costs by avoiding scale buildup.

Investing in a water softener provides softer water, healthier living, and long-term savings for your home. It's a realistic solution for hard water problems.

[aquariusindia]

Aquarius Projects | Sustainable Recycling & Recovery Systems

Aquarius Projects offers water treatment recycling & recovery systems aiming to minimize waste, maximize resources & promote sustainability through solutions

[bestanimal]

Round 1 - Phylum Echinodermata

(Sources - 1, 2, 3, 4)

Echinodermata is a phylum of animals which are bilaterally symmetrical as larvae but radially symmetrical as adults. It includes starfish, brittle stars, sea urchins, sand dollars, sea cucumbers, and sea lilies.

Echinodermata is the largest marine-only phylum, and echinoderms can be found at every ocean depth from the intertidal zone to the abyssal zone. They make up a large portion of life in the deep sea. They are diverse, with some being sessile (lacking self-locomotion) while others are motile (able to move independently). Many are restricted to crawling slowly across the sea floor, while some can swim through the water column. They have a skeleton beneath their outer layer of skin, which is composed of calcite-based plates called ossicles. This would be heavy if it was solid, so it is instead porous. The ossicles may be fused together or articulated, and may have external projections such as warts or spikes. Echinoderms are often brightly-colored, and some of their pigment cells may even be light-sensitive, causing many echinoderms to change appearance completely as night falls. Their diet varies, with some species being predators, some being filter-feeders, some being herbivores, some only eating algae, and some being detritivores. Some injest food through a mouth and expell waste through an anus, while others can only expell waste back through their mouth. The ventral side of many echinoderms is covered in tube feet, each of which typically end in a suction cup pad. They primarily use their tube feet for movement, though some sea urchins will also “walk” with their spines.

Almost all species have males and females, though some are hermaphroditic and at least one reproduces by parthenogenesis. Eggs and sperm are released into open water, where they are fertilized externally. Some species may aggregate during reproductive season to increase the likelihood of fertilization. A small handful of species have internal fertilization. Some echinoderms, especially in colder areas, brood and carry their eggs until they hatch. Echinoderm larvae are usually planktonic, swim via cilia, and have bilateral symmetry. During metamorphosis, the left side of their body grows at the expense of the right side, which is eventually absorbed, ending with the body arranged in five parts around a central axis. Some species reproduce asexually. They do this by splitting in two, like a cell, and generating a new body half from the old one. Some larvae may also reproduce by budding.

The first echinoderms appeared in the Early Cambrian.

Propaganda under the cut:

Echinoderms are able to regenerate tissue, limbs, organs, and sometimes full bodies from a remaining portion of limb. Starfish and brittle stars may detach an arm as a defense mechanism, swimming away while a predator is distracted by the wiggling limb. Some sea cucumbers, on the other hand, take this to the extreme by expelling their cuvierian tubules (respiratory tubes) to entangle potential predators. Sometimes this is also accompanied by a discharge of toxic holothurin. It can take 1.5 - 5 weeks for the tubules to regenerate, depending on species.

The hard endoskeletons of dead echinoderms are geologicallly important, contributing to limestone formations.

Echinoderms sequester about 0.1 gigatonnes of carbon dioxide per year as calcium carbonate, making them important contributors in the global carbon cycle.

Sea stars are heavily muscled, and are able to go from soft to rigid in order to pull open the shells of their mollusc prey.

Sea urchins are among the main herbivores in reefs and there is usually a fine balance between the urchins and the kelp and other algae on which they graze. In the past, mass mortalities of sea urchins have led to algae blooms.

Some sea cucumbers have webbed swimming structures that allow them to swim freely through the water column. Pelagothuria natatrix (seen below) is the only truly pelagic echinoderm known so far.

(source)

Echinoderms seem to have an innate internal clock. Even at the depths of the ocean where no light penetrates, they are still able to synchronize their reproductive activity.

We don’t know much about Sea Pigs (Scotoplanes globosa) (seen in gif) other than that they’re poisonous sea cucumbers that feed on detritus at the sea floor. But we do know that they are often seen clutching young king crabs (Neolithodes diomedea) and carrying them around. One possible theory is that these crabs latch onto S. globosa to gain access to nutrients and movement, and sheltering beneath the poisonous sea pig allows them to hide from predators. As sea pigs are sometimes plagued with parasites that bore holes into their bodies, the crabs may also help the sea pigs by keeping them clean of parasites. For now, all possibilities are just hypotheses, but we can stil Awww at the globby pink sea cucumbers cuddling their little pet crabs.

Along with Hemichordata, they are the closest relatives of Chordata (aka our phylum!)

Some sea urchins pick up rocks, shells, and other debris and carry them around to shade themselves from the sun. Some people who keep them as pets have come up with creative ways to allow them to do this without dismantling the architecture:

(source)

Silly hats aside, these seemingly simple animals are using tools.

[theambitiouswoman]

Water 101 💦

The quality of drinking water can vary based on several factors, it's source, treatment, and the presence of contaminants.

Best Waters to Drink:

Spring Water: Sourced from a natural spring and is typically free from harmful additives and contaminants. It also contains beneficial minerals.

Purified Water: This is water that has been filtered to remove any contaminants. Methods like reverse osmosis, distillation, and carbon filtering can be used.

Filtered Tap Water: Using a good quality water filter can remove many of the contaminants found in regular tap water.

Bottled Water: While many people prefer bottled water for its taste and convenience, it's essential to choose brands known for their quality and sustainable sourcing.

Mineral Water: This is water that contains at least 250 parts per million total dissolved solids (TDS), which are minerals and trace elements. It can be beneficial for health due to the minerals it contains.

Worst Waters to Drink:

Unfiltered Tap Water: In some areas, tap water can contain contaminants like lead, chlorine, fluoride, and other harmful substances.

Distilled Water: While it's free from contaminants, distilled water lacks essential minerals. Drinking it exclusively can lead to mineral deficiencies.

Standing Water: Water from ponds, lakes, or puddles can be contaminated with bacteria, parasites, and viruses.

Water from Plastic Bottles Left in the Sun: The heat can cause chemicals from the plastic to leach into the water.

Untrusted Bottled Water: Some brands may not adhere to stringent purification standards, leading to potential contamination.

Quite a few brands actually combine their water bottles with non pure/non filtered water. However, there are several brands that are recognized for their commitment to providing pure water.

Fiji Water: Sourced from an underground aquifer in the remote Yaqara Valley of Viti Levu in Fiji, this water is naturally filtered and contains minerals like silica, magnesium, and calcium.

Acqua Panna: Sourced from a spring in Tuscany, Italy. The water takes a 14-year journey through the underground rock formations to reach the surface, which naturally filters and purifies it. It has a balanced mineral composition and a naturally alkaline pH.

Evian: Originating from the French Alps, Evian water is naturally filtered through rock and sand before being bottled. It's known for its balanced mineral content.

SmartWater: This brand uses a process called vapor distillation to purify its water. After distillation, it adds back a blend of electrolytes for taste.

Voss: Sourced from an underground aquifer in southern Norway, Voss water is protected from pollutants and is naturally low in minerals.

Penta: This brand claims to use a 13-step purification process, resulting in ultra-purified water.

Icelandic Glacial: Originating from the Ölfus Spring in Iceland, this water is naturally filtered through layers of volcanic rock, resulting in a low mineral content.

Essentia: This brand uses a proprietary process to purify its water, and then infuses it with electrolytes for taste. It's known for its high pH, which is alkaline.

Pure Life (Nestlé): Sourced from carefully selected springs, this water undergoes a multi-step purification process and is enhanced with minerals for taste.

Make sure that any water you drink, whether from a bottle or tap, is stored and handled properly to prevent contamination.

[fishyfishyfishtimes]

I'm a bit shy asking this so I'll stick to anon for the time being. I visited a pet store today and they had the cutest little fish roaming at the bottom of one of their tanks gulping and spitting out sand. I couldn't find the species on the side with the names and tried to do some research and I think it may be a Sand Sifting Goby? All I saw was that they require salt water and that it seemed to feed off whatever was in that sand. I'm genuinely obsessed with this little guy and took plenty of videos, but I don't want to make bad decisions and get one without proper knowledge and research. I was curious to know if you had any facts or tips to help me out? Thank you 🩷

Sounds adorable!! Sand sifting gobies are a whole group of species that come in a variety of colours, all of them looking quite sweet! No doubt the fish was captivating to look at doing its little sand sifting :D

You say you do not wish to make a bad decision and simply impulse buy one without research, which is a good mindset to start from. Fish are not a monolith of animals, they're a large and diverse group of species, each one having their own specific criteria for keeping. I don't know if you've kept fish before or not anon, but I will be giving a general explanation that lets a person who hasn't get started: fish require specific water parameters (temperature, pH, general hardness and calcium carbonate concentration, salinity, etc.), substrate (thickness at the bottom, colour, roughness), plants (density of plants, real or fake, etc.), decor (will the decor scratch or accidentally harm the fish, do they like to hide, etc.), tankmates (of their own species or of different species, or lack thereof), food (specific dietary preferences and restrictions), lighting (harsh or dimmed, amount of light a day), so many things! Freshwater and saltwater aquariums are also different and require different equipment.

The very first thing I recommend you do is go to the pet store (or contact them through social media or email) and ask them what species the goby is. This way you can do research on the specific species instead of sifting through general information about all sand sifting gobies, which may be completely different from our dear little friend at the pet store! That's actually the crux of obtaining a fish or another aquatic life companion: RESEARCH! Soooo much research. You must research your finned friend so much it's starting to feel ridiculous and your family is asking you if you're "still planning on that fish or..?". Look up care guides and fish forums, watch YouTube videos, gather up all the information you get. Some of it contradicts itself, which is why it's important to look to many many sources. Try seeing the newest ones and see what parameters and suggestions are most common. That's only the beginning, though: if you've never owned a fish before, you need to learn about all these aquarium-keeping terms and how to maintain an aquarium, what you need for an aquarium, how to cycle it, etc.. Actually, that's probably best to do before you look up care guides, now that I think about it... Or do both at the same time, that's what I did when I was planning my shrimp tank. See beginner's guides to saltwater fishkeeping, on several sites, move onto more advanced guides and learn the terminology. Learn why these parameters matter so much, or why and how to cycle your tank. Weigh the pros and cons of having plants or some plant species, research different substrates, see what tanks and lights and filters are smartest for you, learn about aquarium pests. Try to find a good middle ground for what's sensible for you and what's the best for your pet; we keep animals for our enjoyment, but we also want to make sure they're having their best time too! Make a list for all the items you need, see how much different options cost, make a budget. Research the water parameters of your city or town, or test the water yourself. See what needs to be done to it so it's suitable for your animal. I've never kept a saltwater tank so I don't know the specifics of it myself, but if you wish to be a saltwater aquarium keeper you must learn! It's a lengthy process, but I went through seven months of preparation before I got my dwarf shrimps. This included my research (I don't have an estimate for how many articles and forums I looked through but my "Shrimps" playlist I made in preparation has 52 videos of just cherry shrimp and aquarium-keeping educational videos), shopping for equipment and plants and setting everything up, and cycling my aquarium. Dear folks in my notes also informed me that saltwater tanks and setups tend to be more expensive than freshwater setups!

Maybe at some point you find that the setup and equipment are simply too expensive, or incompatible with your lifestyle or living situation, or you change your mind for another reason during the preparation process. And that's valid and okay! You took the time to learn and what you learned was just that: it wasn't meant to be. It's much better than getting an animal without preparing and only finding out afterwards that you're incompatible in some way. Learning about these things won't be for "nothing" either, as now you have the valuable knowledge of how to keep fish and an aquarium! It may prove useful later in life if you eventually do obtain an aquarium, or you can become the resident fish knower (very rewarding). You may also decide to look into freshwater gobies, as they are gobies all the same but easier to care for! Please take a look at the folks in the notes and their lovely info.

Hope this helps anon! Perhaps you were wishing for a fish facts -format post, but my measly one-to-four sentence daily fish facts do not a species expert make. Instead I want to give out a guide on how to get started on your goby-keeping journey. I hope it works out for you, I wish you good luck! :)

[mixotrophics]

time layers

tree rings tree-time / dendrochronology. Look at a cut log, look at its rings. growth in trees occurs near the bark, while the deeper-in core layers are preserved rings of past growth.

The seasons / environment affect the growth rate of the tree , creating generally a visual difference between spring / summer+autumn ring growth in temperate regions, hence 1 ring = 1 seasonal cycle. Generally, spring is associated with less-dense, rapid growth, while summer (sometimes into autumn) growth is denser.

width of rings can also be used more finely, wider rings = more growth that year, so probably better conditions... overlapping ring-dates between trees can lead to a long, multi-tree chronology for the area.

.

ice cores layers are built by annual snow, compacted into ice underneath the layers forming above. Ice traps atmosphere , how we can know the rough % oxygen/carbon dioxide/etc of past atmosphere circumstances. Heat doesn't flow well through ice, so even past temperatures can be trapped in large sheets.

dust and marine salt-ions can be trapped within, giving further depth to past ecologies.

.

lake cores mud at the bottom of the lake builds up in undisturbed layers, trapping things that land in the lake and sink.

Trapped pollen can be observed under a microscope & can identify what plant it is from, helping the understanding of how plants spread ; such techniques have been used to find out when some crops were domesticated & cultivated (1).

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sedimentary & metamorphic rocks an iconic time-layering. sediment builds up in layers, compresses under the weight of the layers above and becomes stone. Traps things in there, and they may become coal, fossils, etc. Other things are trapped: the ripples in sediment formed by waves, so that we may know past sand-beaches.

with enough time, these layers become distorted by geological processes, becoming Wiggly (should they move downwards), getting turned non-horizontal, getting weathered (should they be exposed to air/water/etc), so on.

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scutes scutes: plates of a tortoise/turtle's carapace. They grow more quickly in warm seasons than cold ones, forming a ring much like a tree's, even mirroring that same seasonality. elderly animals may have worn-down scutes so particularly-old animals are difficult to age exactly (2).

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otoliths inner-ear-bones. in fish, the large otoliths also form rings with age, so fish-ages can be counted. Again, they are seasonal, growing faster in the summer and slower in the winter.

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stromatolites bacterial fossils / fortresses. on the sea-floor, bacteria can grow into a mat, which is sticky... sand and such gets stuck, forming a layer, and the bacteria then migrates to the top of that layer. repeat. sometimes, more than sediment is stuck : microfossils, for example (3).

stromatolites used to be commonplace, but they do not form without enough of a bacterial mat: in modern times, the mat struggles to form under grazing pressure from things such as snails, shrimp, and so on. Modern stromatolites -- their mats formed of different bacteria than the ancient ones -- can be found in places too harsh for their predators to inhabit.

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baleen whale baleen, the filter-teeth they have, grows in a sturdy sheet. The filter-bristles are formed by the rubbing of baleen-on-baleen, breaking the sheet's ends apart. To compensate for continual wear, the baleen grows.

hormones, which can indicate stress, pregnancy, etc , and isotopes, which indicate different water conditions and therefore different locations / food, are stored in the baleen (4). while the growth/wearing means it is not a complete record of a whale's life, it is still an invaluable and rich slice.

.

sources:

Åkesson, C. M., McMichael, C. N. H., Bush, M. B., Late-Holocene maize cultivation, fire, and forest change at Lake Ayauch, Amazonian Ecuador, Sage Journal

Attenborough, D., Life in Cold Blood

Microbal Mats

Holland, J. S., A whale's baleen bristles reveal the story of its life, Smithsonian Magazine

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if you know others, feel free to add :]

[cea-tide]

Just had a lovely idea for a fantasy species and I need to ramble about it before I inevitably forget, so...

Take a humanoid species that lives in an always super windy area—some salt flats or something. They have wind pipes running through their face that they can close and open on demand. Two holes on each side, where the cheeks would be, with an organ shell to catch the wind. So when standing in the wind, they can communicate with each other by playing melodies on their organic pipe organ (both meanings of the word organ lol). Qebui have a mouth for food in-take, but this is separate from the air circulation, which is instead constantly filtered while it flows through the organ. they have large lungs to account for an extended duration without wind, up to potentially hours. The carbon dioxide is pushed out from the lungs via another hole below the ears so that it doesn't create a deafening cacophony every time they breathe out.

I'm calling them Qebui, singular Qebua, after the Egyptian god of the North Wind. The god Qebui has 4 ram heads, so in honor of that, all pipe organs form the shape of a ram horn, just with lots of holes for the wind to come out of, the ends for producing the lower tones.

Given that they depend on the wind to communicate and it becomes harder to breathe with no air flowing, they are only present in a bounded area, the windy flats, not venturing far from their home. QSL (Qebuic sign language) was developed for communicating without wind, and also for Qebui that lost their hearing or can't control their pipe organs. Elderly Qebui for example tend to experience organ muscle fatigue, where they can't properly or consistently close the pipes, producing a constant humming. Sometimes plugs are used to stop this noise, if they completely lose control. Written Qebuicis akin to sheet music that we know.

Also, since they need to face the wind to produce melodies, and thus can't face each other, they don't put a lot of emphasis on facial expressions in communication. In fact, the muscles that are used for communicating are all hidden away inside the face pipe organs, and there aren't that many in the face itself, safe for the muscles to open the mouth and chew.

They still have separate ears behind the organ shell, to shelter it from the sound of the wind, to better hear the companions who are likely standing behind or next to you. The organ shell has thus also on the back side another ear shell morphed into it to collect the sounds from that direction.

Eyes are protected by extra long eye lashes from the wind (and any sand, dust, etc. that might be in there).

Might not be surprising but their culture is rich in music. There are songs that are purely made of harmonic melodies—these don't contain any lyrics by the way the language works—but there is also a genre of music more akin to poetry, where words (in Qebuic a series of tones/harmonies) are chosen carefully to tell a real story but still create a song.

Art might ensue later if I have the motivation :)

[novaursa]

Of Gods and Men

Targaryen Harvesters

main list (where the story is)

This is Dune/GOT/HOTD/FAB/ASOIAF crossover AU that you've voted for. If you always wanted to see House Targaryen in space, I got you. Please note how some of the lore of both universes is bent to blend in both worlds. This is my original idea that I've been cooking for at least two years. Be gentle with my work, and enjoy the ride.

The Targaryen Harvester, a marvel of advanced engineering and ancient design, stands as a testament to the ingenuity and technological prowess of House Targaryen. Built to operate in the most inhospitable environments, it is a perfect fusion of cutting-edge technology and the almost mystical properties of drakaon crystals, which form the core of all Targaryen machinery. This harvester is unlike any spice-collecting machine in the known Imperium, combining both efficiency and subtlety in ways that make it a formidable tool on Arrakis.

Exterior Design & Structure

Chassis and Hull: The harvester’s body is sleek and aerodynamic, crafted from composite alloys that blend carbon-based materials with a mysterious Valyrian steel derivative. This combination makes the harvester both lightweight and incredibly durable, capable of withstanding the harsh, abrasive sands and the extreme temperatures of desert worlds like Arrakis.

Stealth Coating: The exterior is coated with a black, matte material that absorbs and disperses radar and infrared signals, giving it a degree of stealth that makes it nearly invisible to most scanning technologies. This also helps the harvester blend seamlessly into the shadowed dunes during night operations.

Compact Size & Modular Design: Unlike the large and cumbersome spice harvesters of the Harkonnens, the Targaryen Harvester is compact, designed for mobility and ease of deployment. Its modular nature allows it to be quickly assembled or disassembled, enabling rapid deployment or withdrawal from the field when needed.

Propulsion & Movement

Hover Technology: The Targaryen Harvester employs an advanced hover propulsion system, powered by drakaon crystals. This system allows it to float just above the surface of the sands, minimizing disturbances and vibrations that might otherwise attract the attention of the sandworms. The hover technology is fine-tuned to maintain stability even in rough terrain, allowing the harvester to glide effortlessly over the undulating dunes.

Adaptive Wings: As part of its hover mechanism, the harvester has retractable wing-like structures that extend from its sides during operation. These wings are not for flight but rather serve as stabilizers that adjust to wind currents and shifting sands, ensuring smooth movement over the desert landscape. When not in use, the wings fold seamlessly into the body of the harvester, maintaining its streamlined shape.

Harvesting Mechanism

Siphoning Arrays: The core feature of the Targaryen Harvester is its siphoning arrays, located within the wing-like extensions. These arrays create a controlled vortex of air that draws in sand and spice, separating the two with a precision unmatched by traditional harvesters. The vortex is generated using ionized air currents created by the drakaon crystal cores, which create a powerful yet gentle pull that sifts through the sands.

Crystal-Based Filtration System: Once the sand and spice are drawn in, the harvester uses a series of crystal-based filters to isolate the precious melange from the surrounding sands. These crystals, sourced from Albiron, possess unique electrostatic properties that attract and bind to the spice particles, allowing the purified spice to be collected while the sand is expelled back onto the ground.

Non-Disruptive Extraction: The process of harvesting is incredibly silent compared to the rumbling, clunky harvesters of the Harkonnens. The low hum emitted by the crystal-powered engines is barely audible even in the stillness of the desert night. This low impact is essential in minimizing vibrations, reducing the risk of attracting shai-hulud, the great sandworms of Arrakis.

Energy Core & Power Source

Drakaon Crystal Core: The heart of the harvester’s power is the drakaon crystal core, a dense, multi-faceted crystal that draws energy from ambient solar radiation and stores it for continuous operation. This core allows the harvester to run for extended periods without needing external fuel sources, making it self-sufficient and capable of long-range operations in remote areas of the desert.

Solar Collectors: In addition to the crystal core, the harvester is equipped with solar collectors that deploy during the day. These collectors absorb solar energy, supplementing the crystal’s power reserve and ensuring that the harvester can operate continuously, even under the harsh sun of Arrakis.

Control Systems & Interfaces

Holographic Interface: The harvester features a holographic interface for its operators, projected from a crystal-based control console within the cockpit. This interface displays real-time data on the harvester’s status, spice yield, and environmental conditions, allowing for precise control of the siphoning process.

Neural Feedback System: Advanced Targaryen technology allows for a neural feedback system that connects the operator’s movements with the harvester’s controls. This creates a near-instantaneous response between the operator’s commands and the vehicle’s actions, enabling delicate maneuvers even in unstable terrain.

Remote Control Capabilities: The harvester can be operated remotely from a command ship or a Targaryen control station, making it possible to manage multiple harvesters simultaneously over a wide area. This remote control system is encrypted and designed to be impervious to conventional Imperial hacking methods.

Defensive Features

Energy Shields: Although primarily a civilian machine, the Targaryen Harvester is equipped with low-level energy shields derived from ancient Valyrian technology. These shields are designed to deflect micrometeor impacts and protect the harvester from smaller projectiles or environmental hazards. While not suitable for full combat, the shields provide an added layer of protection against sabotage.

Electrostatic Discharge Mechanism: To deter potential attacks or interference, the harvester can release a controlled electrostatic discharge through its siphoning arrays, disrupting nearby electronics and creating a localized EMP burst. This can disable smaller drones or tracking devices, allowing the harvester to slip away undetected.

Environmental Adaptability

Climate Adaptation Systems: Designed to function in the extreme climates of desert worlds like Arrakis, the harvester is equipped with systems that regulate internal temperatures and prevent overheating. The materials used in its construction have been treated to withstand corrosive sands and thermal expansion, ensuring long-term durability in harsh conditions.

Low-Friction Hull Design: The harvester’s hull is coated with a low-friction material that prevents sand from accumulating on its surfaces, reducing wear and ensuring that the machine can maintain its optimal performance even during extended operations in sandstorms.

Unique Features

Spice Purification Module: A specialized chamber within the harvester is dedicated to refining the spice it collects. This module uses a process that enhances the purity of the melange, making it more potent and valuable. This capability is part of what makes Targaryen spice so desirable—and so mysterious.

Integrated Holographic Cloaking: For operations that require stealth, the harvester can activate a holographic cloaking field, bending light around it to become nearly invisible against the shifting sands. This feature is rarely used, as it drains the crystal core’s reserves significantly, but it can be invaluable for avoiding detection during sensitive missions.

[full-of-mercy]

touching grass

Green.

There are so many words for it.

When mankind aimed itself for the stars and fled from its birthplace, they left behind the lofty and airy arts and architecture that aggrandized them in favor of small, sparse, compact plastisteel and composite metals that would protect mortal flesh from the vacuum of space.

Where humanity has only just (in the grand scheme of things) begun to build skyward again, expand its arms and its spaces again, they never quite abandoned the heirlooms of language.

Evergreen. Fern. Forest. Jungle. Honeydew. Laurel. Moss. Mint. Olive. Jade. Emerald. Malachite. Viridian.

Terre Verte.

People name things in relation. They see what's important to them, and they give it a word, cementing it into memory. Even if the context from Earth to Noman's Land is vastly different, some relics remain.

Nicholas has never seen so much green in his life. His existence has been grey and black. Linen white. Surgical light white. Acid blue. The gold of sand. Rust-red, ember-red, violet-red sunset splash. Blood, gunpowder, gunmetal. Carbide and carbon, lead and brass.

And recently, new colors have entered his palette. Seafoam. Teal. Cerulean. Geranium. Newsprint. Ink-smudge.

And now this. Here.

As if answering some sort of primal call, some kind of genetic memory, Wolfwood reclines beneath a tree beneath a dome, bathed in filtered sunlight and shadow, cooled in the flow of circulating air. Roots spread over the course of a carefully-monitored century cradle grass that grows, lives, dies, nourishes the ground it graced.

And for the moment, the grass cushions his back. Hands laced behind his head, jacket folded up like a pillow, sunglasses on, Punisher elsewhere, he just...

Exists.

Drifting between waking and sleep, stealing a little time away from the uncomfortable sterility and noise of the ship-facility proper, Nicholas allows himself to relax.

However long that lasts.

[hogteeth]

Virbana leech (hiding rn), neon tetras, intentional bladder snails, and blue and red shrimps tank (highly recommend shadowhouse shrimp for real cute boyos)

Shrimps love hanging around upsidedown on the cork I have floating in there, the oak leaves should drop down for more cover soon once they get waterlogged

I might add sand too, but figured porous would be better since I don't have a carbon filter just a shrimp one

The snorgy did in fact result in snail babies lol they're so cute in their lil eggs, I've also got two pregnant shrimps

[the-nerd-up-north]

An old sled, rusted, and worn from the dust and use it's seen over the years, just something Tersa had found her first few weeks here. It didn't have any holes-- but the dust storms and acidic fog would soak into everything it could and corrode. She had to move quickly, the carbon tarp strapped to the top. These Blonde locks whipped in the wind after falling from inside the hood, green eyes staring at the grey swirling clouds above for a moment as she rose from Sandy Hill. Sand and dust for miles— all but a single risen structure, having been already buried by the storm that ever-presently roared in this figure’s ears. A gasp as the pressured chamber would seal, a white room as this woman brought the sled in, and a respirator pulled off as this dust is blown and sucked into the system.

~ decontamination and Filtering complete, welcome back; Technician Azerse.~

“Yeah thanks E-2, Any messages from my mother?” She looked up to the walls as she took the poncho off, and respirator, to reveal these bright orange overalls and a Violet vest that she had zipped mid-way up. Almost, a pilot’s uniform

“Ah, it does appear she had put a few more tasks on your docket, including an Engine test of your recent project.”

“Engine test? There’s not anything wrong with that thing, I double and triple-checked.”

“She thinks otherwise.” A sigh as a locker opened, a hand shoved in as hair was grabbed and woven back into a braid before leaving this white space, the distant feet of fellow soldiers pacing through as this thin-lanky figure began the arduous Journey to the port.

@waysxftheforce

[apexwatersolutions]

How does a water softener reduce scale buildup in pipes?

A water softener reduces scale building in pipes by eliminating the minerals that produce hardness in water, typically calcium and magnesium. This is how it works.

When hard water is pumped through a water softener, it passes through a resin bed containing microscopic beads charged with sodium or potassium ions. These beads attract and trap calcium and magnesium ions in the water, which are then replaced with sodium or potassium. This process is referred to as ion exchange.

By removing these hardness-causing minerals, the water becomes "soft." Without calcium and magnesium, nothing can build the persistent scale deposits that frequently accumulate within pipes, water heaters, and appliances. This yields:

Improved water flow and prevents mineral deposits from clogging pipes.

Reduced scale buildup reduces wear and tear on pipes, boilers, and other water-using systems.

Increased efficiency of water heaters and appliances.

In short, a water softener is an effective way to safeguard your home's plumbing system while also improving water quality by avoiding scale formation. This will keep your pipes and appliances working smoothly for years!

[aquariusindia]

Recycling and Recovery Systems | Aquarius Projects | Vadodara | Gujarat | India

Aquarius Projects Provide many Equipment's For Tertiary And Recycling and Recovery. like Pressure Sand Filters, Ultra filtration System, Ceramic Membrane System, Activated Carbon Filters, etc. For more information visit our site, Call now.

[psychinnovators]

Week 1: Interview and Hypothesis

We, psychology students taking GEE 16 (Entrepreneurial Mind), conducted an interview related with the proposed product which is the "Portable Tap water filter": a compact, water filter utilizing filter sand and gravel and activated carbon/charcoal attachable to faucets to make the tap water much safer to drink.

Indicated in the latter part of this entry are the answers of the eight (8) interviewees to the following questions:

Do you drink tap water?

If there is a product that can filtrate tap water which can be attached to any faucet and can be detached at any time, and can be used for a span of time would you purchase it?

Would you purchase the product if it will cost around 70-100 pesos?

Additionally, we will show the summary of all the answer to justify whether the proposed product is feasible or not, and of course, we will share our experiences in interviewing people face to face.

After conducting a thorough interview with different students residing within Dologon, we received different responses. For the first question, “Do you drink tap water?”, 5 out of 8 interviewees answered NO and the main and common reason behind their answer is the water is not safe for their health. The second question, “If there is a product that can filtrate tap water which can be attached to any faucet and can be detached at any time, and can be used for a span of time would you purchase it?”, 7 answered YES and 1 answered UNSURE. Behind the student’s UNSURE answer is the price of the product, which leads to the third question “Would you purchase the product if it will cost around 70-100 pesos?” there were 6 YES, 1 NO, and 1 UNSURE. The student answered NO because the price is too low for the product, and it makes the skeptical of the capabilities of the product and the UNSURE student’s reason is the lack of information about the product, as it is a plan as of now.

Hypothesis:

Null: There is no significant difference of the variables (filter gravel, filter sand, activated charcoal, fine mesh) to the portable faucet/ tap water filter

Alternative: There is a significant difference of the variables (filter gravel, filter sand, activated charcoal, fine mesh) to the portable faucet/tap water filter.

We think that this product is very timely and feasible as it is a necessity, especially with how unsafe for consumption the tap water in CMU area is to several students and other consumers as well.

Here are our experiences regarding our first ever interview.

"One thing that I learned today is that communication always plays an important role in order to be understood and not to be misled. Today's experience was astonishing for I was able to talk with different people who have different insights and perspectives. Gladly, my group mates were there to guide and help me every time I got lost in track." -Jerome Marata

"The interview that was conducted helped in developing my social skills. Interacting with different people opened my eyes and made me realize that there are different perspectives and opinions on a certain issue based on their own experiences. Also, I’ve come to a realization that our product will be really helpful to the students who wants an assurance for their health." -Joana Patrice Go "During the conduction of interviews, we didn't have major issues, making the entire experience pleasant. It enabled me to think about how to approach people in a way that doesn't give me the impression of being dull nor condescending, it made me more self aware seeing as I wasn't representing myself but instead, a product, and in order to sell a product, you'd have to appear confident and convincing. It helped me realize the importance of external appearance, which is a realization that I personally find very helpful." -Francisse Maria Nercua

"We formulated our questions together after consulting with an agriculturist about our product. It's amazing to see several, unique minds come together for one goal. And in the actual interview, I was the designated photographer, and watching my groupmates from the sidelines was fun. They started off as kind of awkward and were always laughing, and I'm glad that our first interviewee was so patient and understanding. But they definitely improved and were more professional with the next interviewee, and that sudden growth from a single experience was amazing. I also learned how to angle the camera to take photos based on the interviewees' preference of having their face seen or not; I am not good at photography, but I definitely learned how to along the way." -Christiana Mae Loayon "Last January 25, 2023 our instructor for GEE 16 (Entrepreneurial Mind) he gave us the liberty to group ourselves into five then instructed us to create a proposal product. After that, my groupmates and I gave suggestions what our product would be, the target market, needed materials, and why this product should be produced. For this week, we are tasked to interview eight random people about the product we are trying to propose. I need to be attentive since I had to write down every details of the interviewee's response to the questions. Aside from that, I realized that it really depends on how you appear to the person in order to convince them. Overall, the first week for this project proposal was full of fun and excitement. I'm hoping that it will last for the whole journey." -Kristien Faith Dalinao

We all learned something valuable from our interviews, not just something related to business, but also several lessons we can surely use on a daily basis. Working together as one team surely helped us in understanding one another. We also complimented each other despite our clear differences, and supported one another by filling the others' weaknesses with the others' strengths, enabling us to work as one unit.

[vishakharo]

Top Features of RO ZURIC Water Purifiers: Revolutionizing Water Filtration Technology

Water purification technology has advanced significantly in recent years, and one of the standout brands in this evolution is RO ZURIC. With its cutting-edge features and superior filtration systems, RO ZURIC Alkaline water purifiers are revolutionizing the way households and businesses ensure the purity and safety of their drinking water. These purifiers not only focus on efficient filtration but also prioritize health, design, and convenience. Here, we will delve into the top features of RO ZURIC water purifiers, examining how they stand out in the crowded market of water filtration systems.

1. Multi-Stage Filtration Process

One of the most notable features of RO ZURIC water purifiers is their multi-stage filtration process, which ensures that water undergoes rigorous purification. This multi-stage system typically includes several types of filters, such as:

Pre-Filter: Removes large particles like dust, sand, and other sediments that might be present in the water.

Sediment Filter: Removes finer particles, ensuring the water is free from contaminants that could affect the performance of subsequent filters.

Activated Carbon Filter: Absorbs chlorine, pesticides, and other chemicals, improving the taste and smell of the water.

RO Membrane: This is the heart of the system, using reverse osmosis technology to remove dissolved salts, heavy metals like lead, bacteria, viruses, and other harmful substances. The RO membrane provides one of the most thorough purifications available.

UV Purifier: A UV filter is included to kill bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms that might not have been fully eliminated by the earlier stages of filtration.

TDS Controller: Ensures that the right amount of essential minerals is maintained in the water, offering safe, mineralized drinking water.

By combining multiple filtration technologies in one unit, RO ZURIC purifiers guarantee safe and healthy drinking water for you and your family, ensuring that the water is not just clean but enriched with beneficial minerals.

2. Reverse Osmosis (RO) Technology

At the core of the RO ZURIC purifiers is Reverse Osmosis (RO) technology, which uses a semi-permeable membrane to remove harmful substances from the water. RO purifiers are known for their ability to remove a wide range of contaminants, including salts, bacteria, heavy metals, and dissolved solids, making the water almost 100% pure.

The RO process works by forcing water through a membrane that has tiny pores, allowing only pure water molecules to pass through while blocking harmful impurities. RO ZURIC systems utilize advanced high-efficiency RO membranes that can filter out even the smallest particles, ensuring the highest level of purification.

3. UV & UF Sterilization

Another standout feature of RO ZURIC purifiers is the integration of UV (Ultraviolet) and UF (Ultrafiltration) technologies, which provide an additional layer of protection. While reverse osmosis removes the majority of impurities, some microorganisms like bacteria and viruses may still persist in the water.

UV Sterilization: The UV lamp in RO ZURIC purifiers emits ultraviolet light that deactivates the DNA of bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens, rendering them harmless. This ensures that any microorganisms that might have survived the filtration process are killed before the water reaches your glass.

UF Filtration: Ultrafiltration uses a membrane with a slightly larger pore size than the RO membrane, which is capable of removing bacteria and larger particles while allowing essential minerals to remain in the water.

Together, these technologies ensure that the water is both physically and biologically clean, offering a double defense against harmful contaminants.

4. TDS Control

Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) control is an important feature that sets RO ZURIC purifiers apart from others. TDS refers to the concentration of dissolved particles like salts, minerals, and metals in water. While removing harmful substances, some purifiers also strip the water of essential minerals like calcium and magnesium, which are vital for health.

RO ZURIC systems are equipped with a TDS controller that ensures the water retains an optimal level of essential minerals while removing the harmful ones. The TDS controller allows users to adjust the water’s TDS level according to their preferences and the quality of the input water, making it ideal for areas with varying water conditions.

5. Smart & User-Friendly Features

RO ZURIC purifiers are designed to offer not just functional but also smart features that make them incredibly user-friendly. These include:

Smart Alerts: Advanced sensors monitor the purification process and provide real-time feedback. The system can alert users when the filters need replacement or when there is a drop in performance, ensuring consistent water quality.

Auto Shut-Off and Restart Function: The system automatically shuts off when the tank is full, preventing water wastage. If the purifier encounters an issue, it will restart after resolving the problem, ensuring hassle-free operation.

Digital Display Panel: The smart digital panel provides users with important information like the current TDS level, filter status, and system health, making it easy to track the purification process.

Child Lock: This safety feature prevents accidental operation, especially in homes with children, ensuring safe and secure use.

These intelligent features combine to enhance the user experience, offering convenience, reliability, and peace of mind.

6. Compact and Stylish Design

RO ZURIC water purifiers are designed not only for superior performance but also for aesthetic appeal. The sleek and modern design of the purifiers ensures that they blend seamlessly with any kitchen décor. With compact dimensions, they can be easily mounted on a wall or placed on a countertop, offering flexibility in installation without taking up much space.

The purifiers are built with durable, high-quality materials, ensuring longevity and minimal wear and tear. The clean, contemporary look of RO ZURIC purifiers adds a touch of elegance to your home or office, while the transparent design allows users to see the water level and monitor the purification process.

7. Energy-Efficient Operation

In today's world, where energy conservation is a growing concern, energy-efficient appliances are a necessity. RO ZURIC water purifiers are designed to consume minimal energy while still delivering superior performance. The low-power consumption design ensures that the purifier operates efficiently without significantly impacting electricity bills.

[netsolwaterblog]

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Start a Commercial RO Water Plant Business

With the growing demand for safe and clean drinking water, starting a commercial RO (Reverse Osmosis) water plant business is a lucrative venture. If you’re wondering how to start a commercial RO water plant business, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the key steps to ensure your success in this promising industry.

1. Conduct Market Research and Feasibility Analysis

The first step in how to start a commercial RO water plant business is understanding the market dynamics in your area. Conduct thorough market research to identify the demand for purified water. Analyze your target customers, such as residential communities, offices, schools, restaurants, or industries.

Additionally, assess your competitors to understand their pricing, quality standards, and customer base. A feasibility analysis will help you evaluate startup costs, potential revenue, and overall profitability. This groundwork will give you a clear picture of the opportunities and challenges.

2. Develop a Comprehensive Business Plan

A detailed business plan serves as the roadmap for your business. It should include:

Investment Requirements: Estimate the costs for plant setup, machinery, permits, and initial operations.

Revenue Model: Define your pricing structure and profit margins.

Target Audience: Identify your customer base and tailor your services to their needs.

Marketing Strategy: Plan promotional activities to build your brand and attract clients.

Your business plan will not only guide your operations but also be essential for securing funding if needed.

3. Understand Licensing and Regulatory Requirements

Compliance with local regulations is crucial when starting an RO water plant business. You’ll need to obtain specific licenses and permits to ensure smooth operations. These include:

BIS Certification: To confirm water quality standards are met.

FSSAI License: Required for selling drinking water.

Pollution Control Clearance: For water treatment and waste disposal.

Local Municipal Permits: To secure water sourcing and plant setup approval.

Failure to comply with these regulations can lead to legal issues, so prioritize obtaining all necessary certifications early.

4. Choose an Optimal Location

The location of your plant can significantly impact your operational efficiency and profitability. Select a site with:

Easy access to water sources.

Proximity to your target customers.

Sufficient space for equipment, storage, and packaging.

Good transportation links for distribution.

A strategic location minimizes costs and maximizes convenience for both production and delivery.

5. Purchase and Install High-Quality Equipment

One of the most critical aspects of how to start a commercial RO water plant business is investing in reliable and efficient equipment. Key components include:

Pre-Treatment Units: Sand filters and carbon filters to remove large impurities.

RO System: Membranes, high-pressure pumps, and dosing systems.

Post-Treatment Units: UV sterilizers and ozonation systems for enhanced purification.

Storage Tanks and Packaging Units: For bottling and distribution.

Collaborate with trusted suppliers who offer durable equipment, installation support, and after-sales service.

6. Recruit and Train a Skilled Workforce

Hire qualified professionals to operate and maintain the RO plant. Your team may include:

Technicians for handling equipment.

Quality control experts to ensure compliance with standards.

Packaging and delivery staff.

Provide training to familiarize your employees with operational processes, safety measures, and customer service practices.

7. Implement a Strong Marketing Strategy

Marketing plays a vital role in attracting and retaining customers. Use a mix of traditional and digital marketing methods:

Local Promotions: Use flyers, banners, and newspaper ads to create awareness.

Digital Marketing: Build a professional website and leverage social media platforms to showcase your services. Use Google Ads and SEO to increase online visibility.

Partnerships: Collaborate with local retailers, schools, and offices to expand your customer base.

Brand Identity: Develop attractive branding with appealing logos, packaging, and taglines.

A well-rounded marketing strategy ensures a steady flow of customers.

8. Maintain Consistent Quality Control

Water quality is the cornerstone of your business. Regularly test the purified water to meet BIS standards. Maintain strict hygiene protocols during production, storage, and packaging. Investing in quality assurance not only builds trust but also protects your brand’s reputation.

9. Focus on Excellent Customer Service

Providing exceptional customer service is key to retaining clients. Ensure timely delivery, address customer complaints promptly, and offer additional services like refills or maintenance contracts. Personalized attention helps build loyalty and encourages word-of-mouth referrals.

10. Monitor Performance and Plan for Expansion

Once your business is operational, regularly monitor its performance. Analyze sales, customer feedback, and operational efficiency. Use these insights to identify areas for improvement. As your business grows, consider expansion opportunities such as:

Offering flavored or mineral-enriched water.

Catering to industries or large-scale clients.

Adding advanced filtration systems to diversify your product range.

Conclusion

Starting a commercial RO water plant business requires careful planning, regulatory compliance, and a commitment to quality. By following these steps, you can successfully establish and grow your venture. Now that you know how to start a commercial RO water plant business, take the first step and make a positive impact by providing clean, safe drinking water to your community.