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Completed TRL 3 (started at 2, targeting 3)
The overarching goal of the proposed work is to maximize the value of wastewater generated in space by building and characterizing an electrochemical membrane reactor that selectively separates a portfolio of chemical products including plant fertilizer and disinfectants from wastewater. Recovery of these nutrients and products aligns with NASA’s strategic vision to “efficiently use in-situ resources and recycle, reuse, and repurpose expendables,” as stated in Technology Roadmap TA 6.1. In particular, this project narrative proposes work that will address TABS 6.1.2 – Water Recovery and Management, thus advancing the exploration capabilities of NASA and the U.S.A. This project will address a critical barrier to self-sustaining long-term space missions: expensive, time-costly resupply missions. This barrier stems from a lack of resource recovery devices that function in space. The objectives of this proposed work are (1) Evaluate and integrate suitable electrochemical cell components to realize the proposed recovery process; (2) Interrogate electrochemical cell performance under simulated conditions of the ISS; and (3) Maximize the following Figure of Merit (FoM): FoM = {mass of recovered product / energy input}. The research objectives will be informed by our existing devices for resource recovery from wastewater and accomplished by synergistically combining design principles at the molecular level, device building at the lab-scale, and mathematical modeling to advance research and development. A visiting technologist from NASA, as well as the opportunity to visit and perform research at NASA centers, will enable conceptualizing systems level integration of the reactor with other space technologies. The research proposal not only complements the (category doctoral support 6) graduate student’s dissertation but is a quintessential manifestation of his dissertation goals: the pursuit of an invention and subsequent innovation process that will lead to real life-implementation of his technology to enable a more resource-efficient, circular mode of chemical production.
Listed on TechPort itself — the most direct way to ask about this specific project.
This is early/mid-stage (TRL 3) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.
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