Question:
Due to poor winter storage, I discovered that my katadyn pocket filter element had cracked. Aproxx 1/4 of the outer surface 1/8 in. deep had flaked away. I used a light file to even out the surfaces, cleaned it well, then reassembled it. It appears there is one internal crack the surface, depth unknown.. it works like it always did, but, posts over the past 3 years say that it is now useless.. i'm rarely out long enough lately to rely on filtered water, but i wonder is it still ok just in case of emergency. Do i trash it or buy another ceramic element

Answer: Depends on whether you like the risk. The only way to find out if it is working is to run a biological test on the water every time you use it. It might be working now but quit at any time. Personally, I would replace any filter element that had any noticeable damage.

On the same subject, I'm glad that I carry Iodine tablets as a backup. My in-line, Safewater brand, filter clogged solid the other day. Since I was in a very heavy use area, I switched to Iodine. BTW, I discovered that once home, borax will take most of the Iodine stain out of a Platypus bottle. It also takes red wine stains out.