Plasma Catalytic Extraction of Oxygen from the Martian Atmosphere

Plasma catalytic techniques are proposed for the extraction of oxygen from the abundant carbon dioxide contained in the Martian atmosphere (95% CO2).. The Phase I project will clearly demonstrate the feasibility of achieving these goals by focussing on key aspects of the technology, such as efficient microwave plasma catalytic conversion at relevant pressures and processing rates. The Phase II program will advance the technology through a more in depth development effort to the point where a fully functional prototype will be assembled and tested. Successful culmination of this effort will result in a self contained, energy efficient technique that can be utilized in robotic precursor missions to Mars to stockpile oxygen in support of future manned missions to the planet.

Efficient conversion of carbon dioxide (CO2) to oxygen and carbon monoxide would not only provide a practical means to deal with an important greenhouse gas but also provide a key component for synthesis gas (a mixture of CO and H2), a valuable resource used in a variety of industrial-scale processes, such as the Haber process for ammonia production and in the synthesis of various organic compounds such as methanol and synthetic gasoline. An efficient technique that removes CO2 and creates an important industrial feedstock will be cost-effective, environmentally friendly, and commercially attractive.

The NASA application will be as Flight Hardware for deployment in support of future missions to Mars. Extraction of oxygen from the Martian atmosphere may well be an enabling technology for future manned missions to Mars. Ideally this technology will be purchased as Flight Hardware by NASA, or by an aerospace contracting firm on behalf of NASA, resulting in enhanced capability in support of manned missions on Mars, where increased capacity, minimization of expendables, low power requirements, and reliable operation are highly valued.

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.

None of these are guaranteed paths for this specific project — TechPort itself doesn't have an "apply" button. Reaching out to the contact(s) above with a specific question is usually the fastest way to find out what's actually open.