High-efficiency Photocatalytic Hydrogen Peroxide Production Using Polymeric Optical Fibers and Visible Light

NASA is seeking solutions to produce hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) in a spacecraft environment for the purposes of disinfection, cleaning, and wastewater stabilization. H₂Optic Insights, in collaboration with Arizona State University, previously conducted a NASA Phase I STTR project (Contract No. 80NSSC23PB439) titled In-Situ Resource Production of Hydrogen and Hydrogen Peroxide from Water Using Nano-Enabled Optical Fibers. This project successfully demonstrated proof of concept for photocatalytic (PC) H₂O₂ production, achieving Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 3-4 for key enabling components, using visible-light photocatalysis on polymeric optical fibers (POFs) in water. Across published literature, PC H₂O₂ production has emerged as a viable and exciting alternative to other in-situ production methods. Our approach uses a PC reactor containing a bundle of POFs that side-emit light, continuously irradiating photocatalysts deposited on the POFs' outer surfaces ensuring consistent activation and high efficiency. We irreversibly embed small masses of nanocatalysts onto low-cost POFs, reducing catalyst mass while enhancing light delivery efficiency compared to competing designs such as catalyst slurry or flat-plate reactors. We use a low-power visible-light LED to drive photochemical reactions and supply oxygen (bubble-free) through hollow fiber membranes (HFMs). Specifically, we plan to: • Fabricate n=4 replicate PC reactors with POF bundles to further demonstrate we meet/exceed NASA performance metrics • Assess catalyst chemical stability and long-term performance • Evaluate the impact of chemical stabilizers on H₂O₂ production rates • Investigate using O₂ nanobubbles as an alternative to our current HFM O₂ delivery system • Analyze system size, weight, and power trade-offs for scale-up Our technology shows significant promise. Our previous work has mitigated key risks and validated that H₂O₂ production rates remain stable for over 500 hours while meeting NASA's criteria.

NASA is seeking solutions to develop an efficient and long-lasting method for producing liquid H₂O₂ in a spacecraft environment. Currently, Environmental Control and Life Support Systems rely on hazardous chemicals and consumables launched from Earth for surface disinfection and wastewater stabilization. The ability to produce disinfecting and stabilizing chemicals in situ would simplify launch logistics and reduce dependence on resupply missions. For NASA, aqueous H₂O₂ is a versatile and safe cleaning solution with numerous applications, including: wet wipes for cleaning and disinfecting surfaces, urine pretreatment and wastewater stabilization, cleaning residue from food, preparing wetted systems for dormancy periods, and reducing bioburden for planetary protection. H₂O₂ produced sustainably in water using visible light is a versatile and safe chemical with numerous practical applications, including cleaning and disinfecting, laundry and stain removal, plant and garden care, and food safety and preservation. Traditional H₂O₂ synthesis relies on energy-intensive, anthraquinone-based industrial processes that require significant infrastructure, hazardous chemicals, and high operational costs. While compact electrochemical systems for H₂O₂ production have been developed and demonstrated, some systems struggled with long-term operation due to electrode or polymeric membrane degradation. In contrast, photocatalytic H₂O₂ production provides a stable, renewable, and energy-efficient alternative, utilizing light energy to drive reactions between molecular oxygen and water. Onsite generation of H₂O₂ enables fresh production on demand, potentially eliminating the need for chemical stabilizers. For terrestrial applications, onsite H₂O₂ production presents a green alternative that enhances convenience by eliminating the need for large storage containers, reduces reliance on harsh chemicals, and promotes environmental sustainability by minimizing plastic packaging and transport emissions.

This is a mature technology (TRL 7+) — the realistic path in is usually NASA's Technology Transfer Program: licensing an existing NASA patent, or a Space Act Agreement to use NASA facilities/expertise directly. NASA also runs a startup licensing program with no upfront fee for companies formed to commercialize a specific NASA technology.

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