Investigation of Selected Higher Plants as Gas Exchange Mechanisms for Closed Ecological Systems

Item

Title
Investigation of Selected Higher Plants as Gas Exchange Mechanisms for Closed Ecological Systems
Date
1962
Index Abstract
Not Available
Photo Quality
Complete
Report Number
AMRL TDR 62-127
Creator
Pilgrim, A. J.
Johnson, S. P.
Corporate Author
The Boeing Company
Laboratory
Biomedical Laboratory
Extent
88
Identifier
AD0296950
Access Rights
OTS
Distribution Classification
1
Contract
AF 33(616)-7945
DoD Project
7164
DoD Task
716403
DTIC Record Exists
Yes
Distribution Change Authority Correspondence
None
Distribution Conflict
No
Cover Price
2.25
Abstract
The growth of a variety of Angiosperms was evaluated under controlled conditions in low intensity fluorescent light. Although a large number of species exhibited various abnormalities, three species, Brassica Chinesis, Chichorium endiva, Amaranthus gangeticus, were able to tolerate and grow normally under the conditions used. Studies of the photosynthetic activity of these plants showed that a great deal of variation is to be expected both under standard conditions of culture and in media containing increased salt concentrations. Studies of photosynthetic activity by the plants in an atmosphere with the nitrogen replaced with argon or helium indicated that these gases had no adverse effects. Analysis of the three plants included estimation of amino acids, carbon, water and alcohol soluble carbohydrates, protein, nitrogen, ash, lipid, and vitamins A, C, and E. The results indicate that the roots, stems, and leaves of these three species could provide a valuable nutritional supplement. Feeding of the plants to rabbits demonstrated that no acutely toxic compounds are present.
Report Availability
Full text available
Date Issued
1962-09
Provenance
RAF Centre of Aviation Medicine
Type
report
Format
1 online resource
Media
AMRLTDR62-127.pdf