A Bioplastic Portable Water Purifier for the Outdoor Adventurer

The Kelpey portable water purifier is a compact, lightweight solution for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering safe, purified water on the go. Its intuitive design features a manual pump system that allows you to simply pump, fill, and drink. With a two-stage filtration process, Kelpey utilizes advanced hollow fiber membranes capable of purifying up to 5,000 liters of water, effectively removing bacteria, cysts, and viruses. An integrated activated carbon disc further enhances water quality by reducing contaminants and improving taste.

This project explores the innovative use of seaweed-based bioplastics as a sustainable alternative to conventional plastics. While the mechanical properties of this material are still in development and not yet ideal for high-stress and low permeability applications like water purifiers, Kelpey demonstrates the potential of bioplastics in reducing environmental impact. It offers a glimpse into the future of industrial design, where sustainable materials can drive responsible product development without compromising performance.

Kelpey combines functionality, durability, and forward-thinking material innovation to support a greener approach to outdoor gear design.

Client: Kelpey

Year: 2025

Designer: T. Lotgering

Category: Objects

Role: Industrial Designer