Highly Efficient Closed-Loop CO2 Removal System for Deep-Space ECLSS

TDA Research Inc.(TDA) in collaboration with University of Puerto Rico ? Mayaguez (UPRM is proposing to develop a highly efficient CO2 removal system based on UPRM proprietary strontium exchanged silico-alumino-phosphate (Sr-SAPO-34) for closed loop space craft cabin air re-vitalization during deep space missions.

The objective of the Phase I STTR research is to scale-up the sorbent production, evaluate the scaled-up preparations in bench-scale, carry out long term multiple cycle tests in a fixed bed adsorption system and complete a detailed system design and engineering analysis to show the merits of the technology.

This system will also find use in earth for removing CO2 from confined spaces such as large buildings, aircrafts, and submarines to reduce the energy use of next generation life support and air conditioning systems. The sorbent developed is also applicable to a wide variety of industrial processes, which require CO2 removal (i.e., CO2 capture from flue gas, biogas, natural gas, etc.) and sorbent enhanced water-gas-shift reaction in hydrogen manufacturing.

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 4) — 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.