Title

Gaseous Exchange in a Closed Ecological System

Date

1962

Index Abstract

Not Available

Photo Quality

Complete

Report Number

AMRL TDR 62-139

Creator

London, Sheldon A.

West, Arselus

Corporate Author

Aerospace Medical Research Laboratory

Laboratory

Aerospace Medical Research Laboratory

Extent

21

Identifier

AD0402759

Access Rights

OTS

Distribution Classification

1

Contract

Laboratory Research - No Contract

DoD Project

7164

DoD Task

716403

DTIC Record Exists

Yes

Distribution Change Authority Correspondence

None

Distribution Conflict

No

Cover Price

0.75

Abstract

A series of experiments was performed to deter mine the feasibility of using several types of organisms to maintain a gaseous balance in a closed system. The system consisted of: (a) a photosynthetic unit comprised of cells of Chlorella pyrenoidosa strain TX 71105, (b) a biological aerobic sewage- digesting unit, (c) a unit containing an ammonia-utilizing fungus, Linderina pennispora, and (d) an animal chamber containing a white adult male rat. Although many difficulties were encountered, this bioregenerating unit could be operated under closed conditions for 390 hours. Gas analyses indicated CO2 and O2 levels can be maintained at desirable levels. Material balance within the system was not attempted. However, nitrogen analysis of the resultant fungal mass showed that data on the basic physiology of the organism is required before such a balance can seriously be attempted. The relationship between mission requirements and the level of biological complexity of a closed ecological system was discussed.

Report Availability

Full text available

Date Issued

1962-12

Provenance

RAF Centre of Aviation Medicine

Type

report

Format

1 online resource