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ZeoWash: High Efficiency Low Power Washer Dryer

Completed TRL 5 (started at 3, targeting 5)

Description

For longer duration stays in space, a compact low power washer dryer system is a critical element for reducing consumable mass of clothing. Not only does it save on launch mass, clean clothes can improve crew morale. More importantly, cleaning clothes regularly helps to reduce the growth and proliferation of bacteria, allergens, and fungi that may irritate or even cause skin diseases for the crew. But space vehicles and habitats are limited in usable power and volume, therefore the design of a combination washer-dryer system must accommodate these extreme constraints. The ZeoWash Laundry System offers a solution for a combined cycle (Wash/Sanitize and Dry) system which consumes 300W of power to clean and dry 4.5 kg of laundry within 3 hours. The system uses a novel Thermo-electric condenser and convection Desiccator water Removal technologY (TecDry) for achieving an extremely low power, fast drying, self-contained laundry system.

Benefits

Planetary habitats (moon, Mars) for long duration stays Spaceflight missions with access to partial gravity

Space constrained habitation with expensive or low power access such as: off-grid houses, recreational vehicles, small yachts, apartment dwellers, remote research stations/outposts, remote military bases, refugee camps and tiny homes Regular households that want minimal power appliances

Details

Technology areaHuman Health, Life Support, and Habitation Systems > Human Systems Integration > Habitability and Environment
ProgramSmall Business Innovation Research/Small Business Tech Transfer (SBIR/STTR)
Lead organizationThe Space Research Company, LLC, Boulder, CO
Start date2022-07-25
End date2023-01-25

Project contacts

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How to get involved

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 5) — 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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