A Study of Microbiological Waste Treatment Techniques

Item

Title
A Study of Microbiological Waste Treatment Techniques
Date
1962
Index Abstract
Not Available
Photo Quality
Not Needed
Report Number
AMRL TDR 62-142
Creator
Bierberdorf, Frederick W.
Corporate Author
Southwest Research Institute
Laboratory
Biomedical Laboratory
Extent
87
Identifier
AD0299018
Access Rights
OTS
Distribution Classification
1
Contract
AF 33(616)-8153
DoD Project
7164
DoD Task
716403
DTIC Record Exists
Yes
Distribution Change Authority Correspondence
None
Distribution Conflict
No
Cover Price
2.25
Abstract
A number of chemical and microbiological methods for the disposal of human wastes have been surveyed. On space flights of moderate duration (ca 100 to 1000 days) it would be most practical to treat the wastes with biocides and store them after dehydration for recovery of the water. On longer flights the wastes either must be chemically or microbiologically oxidized so that the carbon and chemically bound water could be recovered and used in photosynthesis. Chemical oxidation is more rapid and complete but requires the use of elaborate equipment and the possible expenditure of some heat energy. Microbiological degradation is slower but takes place at a lower temperature. When used in conjunction with a photosynthetic step, this might be the best solution to the problem for use of lunar colonies or prolonged space voyages. A procedure is suggested by which algal and bacterial colonies separated by semipermeable membranes could be used for waste digestion and reutilization of the carbon. An alternative to this procedure is suggested in which methane-utilizing bacteria and algae are used symbiotically for the conversion of wastes to protoplasm, with a minimum expenditure of energy.
Report Availability
Full text available
Date Issued
1962-11
Provenance
RAF Centre of Aviation Medicine
Type
report
Format
1 online resource
Media
AMRLTDR62-142.pdf