Modules
Green Building: Rainwater Harvesting
This TechXcite: Discover Engineering! module introduces youth to rainwater collection systems by looking at how rainwater is collected, how the roof works to protect a home, and water purification systems. At the end of this module, each pair of students will have a better understanding of surface tension, capillary action, and how soil filters water. They will use this knowledge to design a roof system for a house to protect it from rainwater damage and collect the water. Finally, they will design a water filter to purify the collected water.
If you're using this curriculum and not a part of the TechXcite grant, please click here and fill out a brief survey to let us know where you're using it and with how many students. Click the links below to access PDF files of the module:
If you are a 4-H agent or other staff using this TechXcite curriculum module and materials kit as part of the research grant, please complete the following brief survey which asks questions about how you were trained. Please complete the survey even if your only form of training on the module is to watch the pre-recorded videos below. It is not necessary to complete the paper based training survey included with your materials kit if you complete this online survey. » Click Here to Take the Survey
Video Training
Ordering Materials
Additional Resources
Surface Tension, Surfactants
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Surface_tension
Describes the physical causes, effects and method to measure surface tension. The underlying physics are also discussed.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hydrophobe
A background of hydrophobicity is discussed including examples found in nature. Current research and uses of superhydrophobic surfaces are also provided.
http://www.surfactants.net/
This site describes the multiple uses of surfactants including many common surfactants found in house hold products. Has many links to more in-depth knowledge on surfactant chemicals and uses.
Aquifer
http://imnh.isu.edu/digitalatlas/hydr/concepts/gwater/aquifer.htm
This site describes what an aquifer is and how they are formed. It also describes how the aquifer cleans ground water and how they can become contaminated.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aquifer
This website provides an overview of different types of aquifers and also describes the use and their sustainability.
Desalinization
http://ga.water.usgs.gov/edu/drinkseawater.html
This page describes how desalination can be used to create potable water. Also provides some specifications on water salinity classification and basic description of desalination process.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Desalination
This site describes the techniques, economics and environmental consequences of desalination. Also provides a comprehensive overview of areas and countries that have large desalination plants installed.
Rainwater Collection
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rainwater_harvesting
This site describes the advantages for use in urban areas and also provides guidance for sizing a rain collection system.
http://rainwaterharvesting.tamu.edu/
This site provides basics about rainwater harvesting as well as providing some instructional videos designing a collection system.
https://www.engineeringforchange.org/news/2012/03/11/ten_low_cost_ways_to_treat_water.html
This is a great site that provides background information and low cost ways for treating water. Different types of filters, the materials used in their design and their advantages are included.
This curriculum is currently being piloted and has not been approved by National 4-H Council. If you have suggestions or would like more information, please contact us at techxcite@duke.edu.
