Abstract: A water filter cartridge for use in a water filtration system comprises a generally cylindrical ceramic pre-filter having a chamber containing a purification resin. An exit cap having a porous disc therein is attached at a first end of the pre-filter. Water to be filtered passes radially through the pre-filter into the chamber. The water then passes through the purification resin and the porous disc and exits the water filter cartridge through an opening in the exit cap. The ceramic pre-filter can be cleaned when it begins to lose its effectiveness, enabling it to be reused.

Abstract: An orally usable filter straw for the purification of water by forced movement of the water through the straw. The straw includes an elongated tubular conduit having an inlet for reception of the water at a distal end of the conduit and having an outlet at a proximal end of the conduit for expulsion of the treated water. Beginning at the inlet of the straw, the straw includes the following materials retained within the conduit: a removably mounted filter, a purification resin, activated carbon granules, and a bactericide resin. A mouthpiece is mounted at the outlet of the conduit to allow the device to be suitably received by a human user. The straw includes a series of porous spacers positioned within the conduit to segregate the materials retained within the straw.