Abstract: Disclosed herein are devices and methods for the purification of biologically contaminated water to make potable. In one embodiment, there is disclosed a low-pressure device comprising a housing having at least one inlet for receiving biologically contaminated water, and at least one outlet for removing purified water, wherein the housing contains a filter held in place by a seal sufficient to keep the biologically contaminated water separate from the purified water. Because of the novel permeability and purification properties of the disclosed carbon containing filter, the disclosed filter can remove virus, bacteria, cyst or any combination thereof, at water approaching velocity up to 5 cm/min. In various embodiments, the filter can have a flat planar design to be used in a flat pack application, or a more traditional tubular shape.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are fibers comprising an active material that assists in removing contaminants from fluid. The active material, which forms a coating on the fiber, typically comprises a non-fibrous: nanostructured, metal-containing compound, such as a metal-oxygen compound. A filter media made of such fibers, as well as methods of making the fiber and the filter media are also disclosed. Methods of purifying fluids, such as air, water, and fuels, are further disclosed.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a nanostructured material comprising defective carbon nanotubes chosen from impregnated, functionalized, doped, charged, coated, and irradiated nanotubes, and combinations thereof. The defective carbon nanotubes contain a defect which is a lattice distortion in at least one carbon ring. Also disclosed is a method of purifying fluids, such as liquids, including water, as well as gases, including the air using, this nanostructured material.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a nanostructured material comprising defective carbon nanotubes chosen from impregnated, functionalized, doped, charged, coated, and irradiated nanotubes, and combinations thereof. The defective carbon nanotubes contain a defect which is a lattice distortion in at least one carbon ring. Also disclosed is a method of purifying fluids, such as liquids, including water, as well as gases, including the air using, this nanostructured material.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are articles for removing contaminants from a fluid, such as a liquid or gas, the article comprising carbon nanotubes, which comprise at least one molecule or cluster attached thereto or located therein, wherein the carbon nanotubes are present in the article in an amount sufficient to reduce the concentration of contaminants in fluid that come into contact with the article. A method of making the nanomesh material used in such articles is also disclosed, as are methods of purifying fluids using these articles.