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DIY Ion Exchange Columns

An ion exchange filter is used by aquarium hobbyists and consumers to remove calcium from water, thus softening it. The process is accomplished by creating a filter system built with ion exchange columns that contain an ionizing resin and activated charcoal. Tap water is then run through the ion exchange columns, filtered for impurities by the charcoal and ionized by the resin. While you can purchase ready-made ion exchange towers, you can also make them from materials found in most homes. The homemade version is less expensive than the manufactured ion exchange system and is just as effective.

Things You'll Need

Flat-head screwdriver
Unused or washed 2-liter plastic bottle with cap
2-liter plastic wide-mouth jar
Scissors
3 pieces of cotton batting, 3-inch square
Granulated activated charcoal for aquarium filters
Ion exchange resin

Instructions

- 1
  Puncture the cap of the plastic bottle using the flat-head screwdriver. Place the cup on the bottle and flip the bottle upside down.
- 2
  Pierce the plastic jar with the flat-head screwdriver and place the plastic bottle upside down into the top of the jar. The bottle cap should not touch the bottom of the plastic jar.
- 3
  Cut the base of the 2-liter plastic bottle with scissors or a utility knife.
- 4
  Place the cotton batting square into the inverted 2-liter plastic bottle, and make sure it rests evenly over the end with the cap.
- 5
  Pour the resin to approximately one-third of the way up into the inverted 2-liter bottle with the cut bottom.
- 6
  Place the second square of cotton batting over the resin, making sure it is placed evenly to cover the resin.
- 7
  Rinse 1/2 cup of charcoal under cold water to get rid of dust. Place the charcoal in an even layer over the second piece of cotton batting.
- 8
  Place a third piece of cotton batting evenly over the charcoal.

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