ITB Students Create AQUA-PULSE: An Automatic Handwashing Innovation Powered by Micro-Hydro Energy
By Indah Marcelinawati - Mahasiswa Perencanaan Wilayah dan Kota, 2022
Editor M. Naufal Hafizh, S.S.
BANDUNG, itb.ac.id – Students from the Institut Teknologi Bandung (ITB) have successfully created an eco-friendly technological innovation that combines health and sustainable energy. Through their project titled “AQUA-PULSE: Automatic Handwashing Timer Device Based on Micro-Hydro System for Sustainable Personal Hygiene”, the team named AQUAMEN gained attention at the National Scientific Writing Competition (LKTIN) organized by the Science Forum of Universitas Jenderal Soedirman in 2025.
The AQUAMEN team consists of Feri Saputra and Rezqian Nur A, both students from ITB’s Oceanography Program, who share a strong interest in renewable energy and the practical application of physics in everyday life.
AQUA-PULSE is an automatic timer device designed to encourage proper handwashing for 20 seconds, following the World Health Organization (WHO) recommendation. What makes this device unique is its ability to generate its own electricity from running water through a pico-hydro system, meaning it does not require batteries or electricity from the grid.
This concept offers a hygienic solution while also supporting energy conservation in households, schools, hospitals, and public facilities. Beyond its innovative design, AQUA-PULSE stands out for addressing two important global issues personal hygiene and renewable energy which align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
• Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being
• Goal 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
• Goal 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
One of the biggest challenges the AQUAMEN team faced was balancing their busy academic schedules with the preparation for the competition. To manage this, they created a weekly timeline and divided responsibilities flexibly. For both members, the experience became a valuable opportunity to apply their knowledge, improve time management, and strengthen teamwork skills.
They emphasized that the knowledge gained from their ITB coursework played a major role in the project’s success. “Courses such as Basic Physics, Hydrodynamics, and Fluid Mechanics gave us the essential understanding that we directly applied in designing the device. We learned that theory can be very practical,” said Feri Saputra.
Feri also shared an encouraging message for other students who wish to participate in similar competitions: “Start small, with the knowledge you already have. Sometimes, what seems simple can become a big idea when developed seriously. Don’t be afraid to fail—every process will always bring valuable lessons.”
Reporter: Indah Marcelinawati (Urban and Regional Planning, 2022)
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