JAIPUR: Indian Institute of Technology-Jodhpur ( IIT-J ) has devised a formula to remove fluoride from water through locally available resources. Head of Chemistry department Rajesh Kumar Sharma has told TOI that fluoride content in groundwater (which is a prime source of drinking water) in most parts of Rajasthan is several times higher than the permissible limits leading to health hazards. The findings of the research can help families to get rid of the problem by using locally available resources.Sharma partially shared his formula which is patented says that Rajasthani clay added with hydroxyapatite (a natural mineral in bones and teeth enamels and easy to synthesize in laboratory) and pods of Prosopis Julifera (Vilayati Babool) formed an effective system for fluoride removal from water. “The Rajasthani clay is rich in silica and alumina added with advised formula deters 90% of fluoride from the water,” said Sharma. The samples have been scientifically tested. It can be beneficial for people in the several regions in the state.The ideal way suggested by Sharma is removing the fluoride through the earthen pots in households. “The filters could be made by traditional potters and can be used as traditional “Matkas” where filtered water will be drinkable. This is most inclusive way to reach out the formula to the needy people,” said Sharma.Counting the benefits of taking the household approach, Sharma, “Every household can take up the responsibility of their own family. By doing so they are not putting any burden on the government or any municipality,” said Sharma. The IIT-J has planned to take out this developed technique to the ground soon. They will pass on the method to potters so that they manufacture earthen pots to serve the purpose.The continuous intake of fluoride can cause severe health hazards like dental, skeletal, cardiovascular, gastro intestinal disorder and other neurological effects.

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