5-Stage Mineral Filter Cartridge (MS-5) is comprised of 5 filtration layers: 1) Silver Impregnated Granulated Activated Carbon 2) Ionic-Exchange Resin 3) Far-Infrared Ceramic Beads 4) Silica Sand 5) Mineral Sand Activated carbon is extremely effective in the removal of chlorine, bad tastes and odors, radon, solvents, pesticides and herbicides, volatile organic chemicals and hundreds of other man-made chemicals found in tap water. The carbon is impregnated with colloidal silver to disinfect in the water filter system. It is treated with oxygen to open up millions of tiny pores between the carbon atoms and is activated with a positive charge to attract negatively charged water contaminants. Ionic-Exchange Resin softens hard water by replacing magnesium and calcium ions found in hard water with sodium ions. It purifies the water by removing toxin and heavy metal ions and replacing with more innocuous ions such as sodium and potassium. Far Infrared Minerals are known to promote growth and health of living cells. It ionizes and helps activate water molecules in human cells and blood. Far infrared is also known to increase the processing enzyme activity in our digestive tract, as well as boost metabolism. Silica Sand is known to neutralize acidic elements to create an optimal pH balance in the human body. It has superb absorbent qualities to remove granular impurities and suspended solids to provide a brilliant sparkle in water. It also helps in maintaining healthy nails and radiant skin. The Mineral Sand in the final stage of the cartridge is comprised of over 45 different types of essential healthy minerals, such as calcium, manganese, zinc and potassium. The expected useful life of the filter is 500 gallons or 6-10 months, whichever comes first.