Electrochemically Modulated Gas/Liquid Separation Technology for In Situ Resource Utilization Process Streams, Phase I

In this phase I program MicroCell Technologies, LLC (MCT) proposes to demonstrate the feasibility of an electrochemically modulated phase separator for in situ processing and refining in future space missions. Two-phase (liquid and gas) flow can be a vital part of many life support and or thermal management systems which will be supported using in situ resources on spacecraft and on future habitations on the Moon and Mars. In this phase I program, we propose to demonstrate the use of an innovative electrochemically modulated gas/liquid separation system for use in 0-g conditions. In phase I, we propose to develop a supported ionic liquid membrane electrode assembly and demonstrate the separation of CO2 from water. The phase II program will optimize this system, as well as adapt this technnology to selectively separate other gases of interest for ISRU applications such as nitrogen and oxygen in a two-phase flow. In phase II we will also develop innovative reactor designs to minimize size and weight for space applications.

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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