Sharyjel Gelilang

Sharyjel Gelilang is a materials research engineer with over eight years of experience in R&D, focusing on ceramics, polymers, and other materials, investigating their properties and performance for specific applications. She holds a Bachelors degree in Materials Engineering, graduating Cum Laude, and has units towards an masters in Materials Science and Engineering, both from the University of the Philippines-Diliman. Currently a Science Research Specialist II at the Department of Science and Technology - Industrial Technology Development Institute since 2017, her expertise is demonstrated through numerous journal publications, intellectual properties, and presentations regarding her work on polymers, ceramics, and nanotechnology.

CeraMix is a gravity-assisted water purification technology designed to provide clean water in underserved areas, especially those lacking electricity or affected by disasters. It is a low-cost, high-impact solution for rural and urban communities, especially in the Philippines and other low and middle-income countries. The system uses two filtration stages: the first stage, featuring a candle-type ceramic filter with an antibacterial coating, removes microorganisms and particulates. The second stage uses pellet adsorbents, specifically molecular sieves like nanozeolites, to potentially remove heavy metals from the source water, such as tap, deep-well, or groundwater. This makes potable drinking water accessible to consumers.