Sharp unveils water-recycling laundry system for disaster relief

Sharp Corporation has unveiled the ‘Triple Free Laundry’ system, a wastewater-recycling technology designed for use in environments lacking standard water and drainage infrastructure, such as disaster shelters. Showcased at CEATEC 2026, the system combines a commercial drum washing machine with a specialized filtration unit.

The unit utilizes a three-stage filtration process—including filters for dirt and activated carbon for oils, followed by UV sterilization—to allow water to be reused for up to 100 wash cycles. While functioning as a standard washing machine during normal operations, it can be switched to a circulation mode during emergencies.

Developed in Yao, Osaka, the technology has received the CEATEC AWARD 2026 Excellence Award. Sharp plans to deploy the units in containers for disaster relief, targeting public facilities, nursing homes, and schools. Additionally, the system has been selected for demonstration testing by the Japan Self-Defense Forces at military bases.