Feasibility of Removing Gaseous Contaminants from Manned Space-Cabin Atmosphers by Ionic Processes

Item

Title
Feasibility of Removing Gaseous Contaminants from Manned Space-Cabin Atmosphers by Ionic Processes
Date
1966
Index Abstract
Not Available
Photo Quality
Not Needed
Report Number
AMRL TR 66-22
Creator
Doyle, George J.
Caldwell, Robert G.
Corporate Author
Stanford Research Institute
Laboratory
Aerospace Medical Research Laboratories
Extent
72
Identifier
AD0635522
Access Rights
Distribution of this document is unlimited
Distribution Classification
1
Contract
AF 33(615)-2405
DoD Project
6373
DoD Task
637302
DTIC Record Exists
Yes
Distribution Change Authority Correspondence
None
Distribution Conflict
No
Abstract
The application of ionic processes to the purification of manned space-cabin atmospheres was investigated in anticipation of a need for a radically new atmospheric purification system for some of the presently scheduled space journeys. Processes considered are (1) ion-molecule reactions of contaminant molecules with specific added molecule ions (O2(+), O2(-)) and (2) clustering of contaminant molecules about specific ions (H3O(+)). Either reaction type can lead to charging of the contaminant molecules (or molecules derived therefrom), allowing collection by an externally applied electric field. Ion-molecule reactions were found to be potentially useful for removal of a large class of contaminant species. However, charge-trapping reactions involving such species as water and oxygen--occurring or energetically capable of occurring concurrently or subsequently to the desired reaction--could interfere, thereby allowing no clear-cut decision as to the applicability of ion-molecule reactions to purification. Clustering was investigated in greater detail than ion-molecule reactions. Detailed calculation of ion-polar molecule interaction energies for typical molecules were carried out.
Report Availability
Full text available
Date Issued
1966-02
Provenance
RAF Centre of Aviation Medicine
Type
report
Format
1 online resource
Media
AMRLTR66-022.pdf