Abstract: A filter sleeve is fabricated from a variety of media selected to preferentially remove particulates and specific contaminants from water or other liquids. The layers of the filter sleeve may be configured to remove 1-micron particulates, while another layer or layers may be configured to remove a range of petroleum hydrocarbons, fats, oils, and greases, while yet another layer may be configured to remove metals, and yet another layer could be configured to remove bacteria, algae, mold, and fungus. Filter sleeves that are configured to remove different particulate sizes and contaminants can be used simultaneously by placing the filter sleeves inside one another to accrue the capabilities of several individual filter sleeves as one unit. The filter sleeve can be used to remove particulates and hydrocarbons from waste water accumulated in underground vaults, enabling such waste water to be discharged directly into the ambient environment.

Abstract: A multi-layer filter sock is fabricated from materials selected to preferentially remove certain contaminants. For example, a first layer of the filter sock removes relatively fine particulates (such as rust), and another layer removes hydrocarbons. One exemplary hydrocarbon filter material can be made from delustered synthetic fibers. In one exemplary embodiment, the multi-layer filter sock includes an inner pre-filter layer configured to remove relatively larger particulates, another layer configured to remove relatively finer particulates, and a hydrocarbon removing layer. Such a filter sock can be used to remove rust from waste water used to flush fire suppression sprinkler systems, and particulates and hydrocarbons from waste water from underground vaults, enabling such waste water to be discharged directly into the ambient environment.