Microfibre Washing Filter

My product aims to mitigate such microplastic production by intercepting them from the outlet hoses of commercial washing machines - before they enter open waterways. This device is an affordable solution which is passive in nature, visually unobtrusive and will act to reduce ocean pollution and limit the harmful impact on humans and marine wildlife.

The aim of this project was to research and develop a practical solution to one of the largest and most overlooked pollution issues - microplastics. Microplastics are classified as plastic fragments smaller than 5mm in length and they are of huge concern to marine wildlife and oceanic ecosystems.  In addition, we are all estimated to consume upwards of 39,000 particles of plastic per year in consumer foods such as beer, bottled water and most seafood.

The largest source of consumer microplastic waste is through commercial washing machine wastewater – responsible for up to 35% of all consumer generated microplastics. The microplastics are created by agitation and water abrasion acting on synthetic clothing such nylon, polyester and acrylics.

The effective operation, aesthetic style and user engagement combine to make this filter unit a “household ocean waste mitigation device”. The visceral experience the user feels when cleaning the fibers from the filter, creates awareness of the importance of consumer responsibility. Further, the interception of the fibers has a positive emotional effect, as the user understands that in some small way, they have helped lessen ocean pollutants. However it is the low manufacturing and estimated retail cost of $20 aud that makes my product truly unique in the consumer filtration market.