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Appropedia Home-Made Wire and Plastic Water Storage Tank

Atmospheric & Fog Harvesting • Est. CapEx: $34 USD • Lifespan: 7–15 Years


Technical Overview

A low-cost, DIY water storage tank made from welded wire mesh, asphalt felt, and polyethylene plastic sheeting. Designed for homesteaders and small-scale farmers to store up to 3,500 gallons of rainwater or hauled water for irrigation and livestock.


Key Specifications & Engineering Parameters

Parameter Specification
Category Atmospheric & Fog Harvesting
Capital Cost (CapEx) $34 USD
Power / Energy 100% Gravity / Zero Power
Target Scale School / Clinic / Cluster (50–200 people)
Standard Lifespan 7–15 Years
Technology Maturity Commercially Available
Primary Mechanism The tank is constructed by forming a cylindrical cage from 14-gauge welded wire mesh, lining it with asphalt felt for puncture resistance, and placing a 4-mil black Visqueen plastic liner inside to hold water. The liner is pleated and weighted with sand, creating a flexible, impermeable basin that relies on gravity and ground support.

Cross-Reference & Interactive Tools

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