New dry WC delivers the smell of success!
Water is essential for life. Today, it is more important than ever to use our water wisely and to not waste it. The water used to flush water closets (WCs), or toilets, amounts to over 25 % of domestic usage across Europe. This volume could be significantly reduced if more dry toilets were in operation. Until recently, dry toilets had several shortcomings such as the presence of unpleasant odours, which hindered their widespread use. The technical innovations developed in the EU-funded 'New biocide dry toilet with improved hygienic functionalities' (DRYCLOSET) project could provide the solution. During the project, two biofilter designs were proposed for both natural and forced ventilation conditions, which will lead to the efficient removal of odours. In addition, an inhibitor compound, available commercially for agricultural use, has been identified as the optimum solution to prevent the build-up of scale that blocks the system's pipes. DRYCLOSET also developed two specific harmless materials for the new toilet in an attempt to improve its performance. A resistant biocide polymer can be used in the toilet bowl while an anti-bacteria coating can be spread over its surface. These innovations will ensure the toilet's cleanliness and hygiene. The project members thus produced a new dry toilet requiring less maintenance and better functionalities. Having achieved its objectives, DRYCLOSET's results are ready to be launched in the market place. In addition, plans are in the pipeline to commercialise the new toilet and to exploit it in the industrial sector related to the sanitation and installation of dry toilets.
