Browse Topic: Waste management

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Bullish on biomethane19TOFHP06_016/1/2019
The CEO of CNH Industrial says biomethane is cleaner path than electric, as Case demos the alt fuel in cool wheel-loader concept. Hybrid and electric powertrains were omnipresent at bauma 2019 in Munich, with several OEMs and engine manufacturers showcasing electrified machines in near-production form. But CNH Industrial bucked that trend, touting the many benefits of biomethane instead. “Everybody talks about electrification; however, we believe that on the on-highway side as well as in off-highway there is a ‘bridging technology’ that is here to stay-LNG and CNG (liquefied and compressed natural gas),” said Hubertus M. Mühlhäuser, CEO of CNH Industrial, which includes brands Case, New Holland, Iveco and FPT Industrial, among others.
Gehm, Ryan
Plastic-Degrading EnzymeTBMG-341514/1/2019
Eight million metric tons of plastic waste, including polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles, enter the oceans each year, creating huge manmade islands of garbage. Experts estimate that by 2050, there will be as much waste plastic in the ocean by mass as there are fish. A bacterium, Ideonella sakaiensis 201-F6, can degrade plastic bottles but it doesn’t work fast enough to solve plastic recycling at the industrial scale.
Printing Ink Removes Oxygen in Sealed PackagesTBMG-288525/1/2018
Oxygen adversely impacts food flavor and nutrition. NASA’s proposed five-year shelf life for astronaut food requires aggressive measures to minimize oxygen. Previously, NASA packaged foods in containers with a high oxygen and moisture barrier. These materials have limiting properties. They contain a metal layer; therefore, they do not incinerate or melt-compress. As a result, they are a disposal burden. They also have only a three-year shelf life.
Relationship among Various Particle Characterization Metrics Using GDI Engine Based Light-Duty Vehicles2018-01-03534/3/2018
In recent years, gasoline direct injection (GDI) engines have been widely used by manufacturers in light-duty to meet stringent fuel economy and emissions standards. This study focuses on the relationship between various particle metrics such as number, size, surface area and mass of dilute exhaust particles from 12 different light-duty vehicles equipped with GDI engines. The campaign included the measurement of total particulate matter (PM) using Title 40 CFR Part 1066 compliant filter measurement, soot mass using photo-acoustics based analyzer, organic carbon (OC) & elemental carbon (EC) mass using thermo-optical analysis of quartz filter samples, solid particle number using European Union Regulation No. 49 compliant number system and solid particle size/number using an electrical mobility based size spectrometer. The measurement campaign involved testing each vehicle over 16 Unified Driving Cycles, also called LA-92 drive cycles which is a more aggressive drive cycle than the Federal Test Procedure (FTP-75) drive cycle. We examined relationships between 1) the three different mass based measurement techniques, 2) the two different number based measurement techniques, 3) mass and number measurements, 4) derived mass (from measured size distribution) and measured mass. Such information can be invaluable to researchers studying the effect of combustion generated particles on human health. Currently, PM2.5 mass is the widely used metric to assess health impact due to the absence of sufficient data for other metrics. Development of a database of relationships between different metrics for a widely used engine platform such as the GDI becomes critically important to stakeholders.
Premnath, Vinay, Khalek, Imad A., Morgan, Peter
Motorcycle Emission Profiles in Bandung City, Indonesia2017-32-007611/5/2017
Motorcycles account for almost 80% of private vehicles in Indonesia, with an annual growth rate of 12% per year. This paper aims to investigate the emission profiles of CO2, CO, HC and NOx based on typical fuel and motorcycle types in Indonesia. Questionnaire surveys were undertaken to gather fuel type, engine technology and capacity representing the motorcycle population in Bandung City, Indonesia. Emissions were measured based on six-speed variations on a chassis dynamometer. Questionnaire surveys from 290 respondent show that EURO II and EURO III technology with engine capacity less than 150cc is the most utilized type of motorcycle in Bandung. Most of the users’ chose RON 90 and RON 92 gasoline. Based on the results, four groups of 5 motorcycle of EUROII-RON90, EUROII-RON92, EUROIII-RON90, and EUROIII-RON92 were tested. Emission data showed that the higher the speed, the lower the emission, except for CO and NOx which have a different pattern. The highest CO2 and NOx emission are found in the EUROIII- RON92 group (76.81 and 0.17g/km respectively), EUROII-RON90 for highest CO emission (11.92 g/km), and EUROII-RON92 for highest HC (0.30 g/km). Kruskal Wallis test shows significant differences within the group for all parameters. Good quality fuel on motorcycles will lead to engine performance improvement. It increases CO2 and NOx emission as complete combustion marker and reduces byproduct of incomplete combustion, especially CO emission. This paper shows that to reduce the emission of incomplete combustion product, a proper fuel specification should be used to get expected emission reduction. The results highlight the importance of fuel provision with proper specification in the plan of upgrading motorcycle engine technology.
Yudison, Adyati, Reksowardojo, Iman K., Sulaeman, Aminudin
Experimental Investigation on a DI Diesel Engine Using Waste Plastic Oil Blended with Oxygenated Fuels2017-24-01169/4/2017
In this study, two oxygenated fuels consisting of butanol and diethyl ether (DEE), both possess same number of carbon, hydrogen and oxygen atom but difference functional group, were blended with the waste plastic pyrolysis oil to use in a 4-cylinder direct injection diesel engine without any engine modification. In addition, the effect of castor oil addition to such fuel blends was also investigated. Four tested fuels with same oxygen content were prepared for engine test, comprising DEE16 (84% waste plastic oil blended with 16% DEE), BU16 (84% waste plastic oil blended with 16% butanol), DEE11.5BIO5 (83.5% waste plastic oil blended with 11.5% DEE and 5% castor oil) and BU11.5BIO5 (83.5% waste plastic oil blended with 11.5% butanol and 5% castor oil). The results found that the DEE addition to waste plastic oil increased more HC and smoke emissions than the butanol addition at low engine operating condition. However the benefit to reduce HC and smoke was observed when the DEE blend was tested at high engine operating condition compared to the butanol blend, while CO and NOx was similar. The fuel blend with the combination of DEE and castor oil showed a more advantage to decrease HC, CO, NOx and smoke emissions at both engine operating conditions tested.
Sukjit, Ekarong, Liplap, Pansa, Maithomklang, Somkiat, Arjharn, Weerachai
Knowledge System Based Design-for-Reliability for Developing Connected Intelligent Products2017-01-01963/28/2017
Connectivity and artificial intelligence will be major features of many upcoming products. The need for accurate estimation of the state of these products and their operational environments, and, the intricacy of their decision, planning, and control algorithms, will cause unprecedented growth in their design complexity as well as their software content. The failures of complex software-intensive electronically controlled products of today can often be traced to the interfaces between different subsystems and to the intersection between different engineering disciplines, i.e., mechanical, electrical, and software. Experts who possess intuition regarding the failure modes and robust design of complex electronically controlled products are few and consequently, information management solutions that can help capture and reuse the product failure modes are crucial for delivering dependable, software-intensive products. Today, enterprise level reliability engineering tools and systems engineering tools are disconnected, creating many possibilities for erroneous information transfer and loss of crucial understanding. This problem is further accentuated when we consider the silos of expertise in mechanical, electrical, and software disciplines. Additionally, failure knowledge capture and reuse tools are neither commercially offered nor frequently deployed in the context of systems engineering. This paper proposes a map of the connection between commonly used tools in reliability engineering and the technical processes of systems engineering. The paper also presents a brief overview of the ontology based product failure knowledge capture and reuse systems to assess the potential for realizing a Knowledge System Based Design-for-Reliability capability in the industry.
Agaram, Venkatesh
MMT Effects on Gasoline Vehicles: A Literature Review2016-01-90733/14/2016
Methylcyclopentadienyl manganese tricarbonyl (MMT) is an octane-boosting gasoline additive that has been used for over 50 years. This usage has been controversial; particularly in modern gasoline vehicles equipped with advanced emissions control systems. There is concern that extended use of MMT will lead to build-up of Mn-containing deposits on engine and emissions system components, thereby adversely affecting vehicle emissions performance and durability. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the literature regarding the effects of MMT on gasoline vehicles, with an emphasis on modern, Tier 2 vehicles. Numerous test programs have been conducted - including wide ranges of vehicle model years, technology types, and testing conditions. The reported MMT effects over this body of literature are not consistent. In general, studies by automakers have concluded that under certain test conditions, use of MMT is detrimental; contributing to catalyst plugging, deteriorated performance, and increased emissions. In contrast, most studies by Ethyl/Afton have concluded that under typical operating conditions, use of MMT does not cause harm, and does not contribute to exceedances of vehicle emissions standards. These opposing conclusions can be attributed largely to two factors: (1) differences in test cycles/conditions and (2) the basis for emissions comparisons. To achieve compliance with stringent Tier 2 emissions standards, automakers have adopted more active catalysts having higher cell densities, higher surface areas, and thinner cell walls. Furthermore, these catalysts are mounted in configurations that are close coupled (CC) to the exhaust manifold, promoting more rapid initial heating and higher overall catalyst temperatures. These technology enhancements have increased concerns about the use of MMT. There is credible evidence that under certain in-use operating conditions, MMT has contributed to catalyst plugging in Tier 2 vehicles. Similar concerns are expected to apply to future Tier 3 technology vehicles.
Hoekman, S. Kent, Broch, Amber
The Measurement of Particulate Matter from Construction Machinery under Actual Operating Conditions2015-01-28109/29/2015
The paper describes the measurement of PM emission from an excavator engine under actual operating conditions. The exploration of the relations between the engine operating parameters and its emissions requires measurements under actual conditions of engine operation. The specificity of the emission measurements, PM in particular, requires technologically advanced measuring devices. The situation gets even more complicated when, beside the PM mass. The particle size distribution and number (PN) also need to be measured. An important technical issue is the difficulty in fitting the measurement equipment in/on the vehicle in operation (e.g. excavator), which is why the presented investigations were carried out in a laboratory under simulated operation. The laboratory technicians applied load to the engines through the excavator hydraulic system. During the tests, the authors attempted to reflect the operating conditions (prerecorded engine speeds and loads when the excavator operated in the field). The paper presents the results of the investigations on the emission of particulate matter (PM). The performed measurements have shown the Particle mass, number and size distribution. For the measurement, the authors used modern technology analyzers: Micro Soot Sensor by AVL and Engine Exhaust Particle Sizer by TSI. To complement the research, measurements of other exhaust components have also been carried out.
Lijewski, Piotr, Merkisz, Jerzy, Fuc, Pawel, Siedlecki, Maciej, Ziolkowski, Andrzej
Engine Exhaust Solid Sub-23 nm Particles: I. Literature Survey2014-01-283410/13/2014
In the current diesel vehicle exhaust emissions legislation Particle Number (PN) limits for solid particles >23 nm are prescribed. The legislation was extended to include Gasoline Direct Injection (G-DI) vehicles since September 2014. Target of this paper was to investigate whether smaller than 23 nm solid particles are emitted from engines in considerable concentration focusing on G-DI engines. The literature survey and the experimental investigation of >15 vehicles showed that engines emit solid sub-23 nm particles. The average percentage over a test cycle for G-DIs (30-40%) is similar to diesel engines. These percentages are relatively low considering the emission limit levels (6×1011 p/km) and the repeatability (10-20%) of the particle number method. These percentages are slightly higher compared to the percentages expected theoretically not to be counted due to the 23 nm cut-off size (5-15%). Higher fraction can be measured with high ethanol content fuels, at sub-zero ambient temperatures and when additives are added in the fuel or lubricant. Based on the information today, the PN legislation should remain the same. However measurements of particles <23 nm should go on in order to monitor the sub-23 nm fraction of current and future engine technologies.
Giechaskiel, Barouch, Manfredi, Urbano, Martini, Giorgio
Comparison of Measurement Strategies for Light Absorbing Aerosols from Modern Diesel Engines2014-01-15704/1/2014
Light absorbing components of aerosols, often called black carbon (BC), are emitted from combustion sources and are believed to play a considerable role in direct atmospheric radiative forcing by a number of climate scientists. In addition, it has been shown that BC is associated with adverse health effects in a number of epidemiological studies. Although the optical properties (both absorbing and scattering) of combustion aerosols are needed in order to accurately assess the impact of emissions on radiative forcing, many models use radiative properties of diesel particulate matter that were determined over two decades ago. In response to concerns of the human health impacts of particulate matter (PM), regulatory bodies around the world have significantly tightened PM emission limits for diesel engines. These requirements have resulted in considerable changes in engine technology requiring updated BC measurements from modern engines equipped with aftertreatment systems. In this study, a variety of common ambient monitoring techniques were used to characterize the light absorbing properties of diesel aerosol. Aerosol optical properties were directly measured with an Aethalometer and Photoacoustic Extinctionmeter and compared to filter based analysis. The results showed excellent correlation (R2 = 0.95) between aerosol light absorption at the short IR wavelength with elemental carbon (EC) concentration from a thermal optical reflectance, NIOSH 5040 method. Resulting EC mass absorption cross-section efficiencies differed by 25 to 30% from manufacturer published values indicating the optical properties used by the instrument may not be representative of modern diesel engine emissions.
Robinson, Michael, Liu, Z. Gerald, Olson, Michael, Schauer, James
Influence of the Alcohol Type and Concentration in Alcohol-Blended Fuels on the Combustion and Emission of Small Two-Stroke SI Engines2012-32-003810/23/2012
The combustion processes optimization is one of the most important factors to enhancing thermal efficiency and reducing exhaust emissions of combustion engines [1; 2]. Future emission regulations for small two-stroke SI engines require that the emissions of gases causing the greenhouse effect, such as carbon dioxide, to be reduced. One possible way to reduce exhaust gas emissions from two-stroke small off-road engines (SORE) is to use biogenic fuels. Because of their nearly closed carbon dioxide circuit, the emissions of carbon dioxide decrease compared to the use of fossil fuels. Also biogenic fuels have a significant influence on the combustion process and thus the emissions of different exhaust gas components may be reduced. Besides greenhouse gases, several other exhaust gas components need to be reduced because of their toxicity to the human health. For example, aromatic hydrocarbons cause dangerous health problems, and can be reduced by using alkylate fuel. This research shows the potential of gasoline or alkylate fuel blended with alcohol to reduce exhaust gas emissions. Blends of these fuels with ethanol, 1-butanol and 2-butanol were used. The exhaust gases were analyzed both with standard exhaust gas analyzers and with a Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscope (FTIR). The combustion process was analyzed by interpreting the indicated incylinder pressure. Thus the influence of alcoholic blends causing combustion phenomena such as knocking was regarded.
Bertsch, Markus, Beck, Kai W., Spicher, Ulrich, Kölmel, Armin, Dawin, Ute C., Lochmann, Holger, Schweiger, Stefan
Bacteria Provide Cleanup of Oil Spills and WastewaterTBMG-139756/1/2012
Given the size of our planet and its wealth of resources, it is easy to forget that those resources are finite. As Earth’s human population continues to grow, the questions of how to effectively limit and recycle waste, avoid environmental contamination, and make the most of water and fuel reserves become all the more pressing.
Battery Recycling Interaction with Washington2012-01-03524/16/2012
As the market for plug-in hybrid and electric vehicles continues to grow, so too will the demand for advanced batteries using lithium-ion and other chemistries. The need to recycle advanced batteries will grow as well lest the batteries become a solid waste disposal problem. Currently, lithium recycling is an industry in its infancy, but one that will need to develop to meet expected growing demand. This considers policy issues that policymakers will need to address as the demand for advanced battery recycling emerges.
Howes, John
Measurement of In-use PM using Soot Augmented with a Gravimetric Reference2012-01-12544/16/2012
Diesel PM is understood to comprise elemental carbonaceous particles, an organic fraction of soluble or volatile hydrocarbons and sometimes a sulfate fraction. The need to measure such diesel PM at very low levels and to measure it outside of the usual engine test laboratory makes it helpful to sharpen our understanding of this detail composition and how it comes about. Real time instruments for measuring soot and particle number concentrations make it possible to discern emissions levels much lower than filter based laboratory measurements, but an understanding of the relationships between these measurements and the historical reference methods makes them more useful for development and certification of engines. Efforts to use soot measurements in-use in order to meet NTE requirements have shown good correlation to the laboratory reference and have also provided some new information on the shortcomings of the reference methods. This paper will report on measurements made with a photo-acoustic soot instrument augmented by a filter gravimetric method, including results from tests with the laboratory reference method and those made in-use on vehicles. It references related work done decades ago, updating and refining what was learned then with observations made with today's more modern instrumentation, data collection and data processing.
Silvis, William M.
Performance of Particle Oxidation Catalyst and Particle Formation Studies with Sulphur Containing Fuels2012-01-03664/16/2012
The aim of this paper is to analyze the quantitative impact of fuel sulfur content on particulate oxidation catalyst (POC) functionality, focusing on soot emission reduction and the ability to regenerate. Studies were conducted on fuels containing three different levels of sulfur, covering the range of 6 to 340 parts per million, for a light-duty application. The data presented in this paper provide further insights into the specific issues associated with usage of a POC with fuels of higher sulfur content. A 48-hour loading phase was performed for each fuel, during which filter smoke number, temperature and back-pressure were all observed to vary depending on the fuel sulfur level. The Fuel Sulfur Content (FSC) affected also soot particle size distributions (particle number and size) so that with FSC 6 ppm the soot particle concentration was lower than with FSC 65 and 340, both upstream and downstream of the POC. Conversely, FSC did not have major effects on the soot particle number reduction efficiency of the POC. Soot and other exhaust compounds accumulated within the POC during this phase, gradually built a pressure drop across the POC. The final mass of collected matter in the POC differed significantly according to the sulfur content. The efficiency of removal of gaseous pollutants by the POC was found to be markedly worse for the fuels with higher sulfur content, although this deterioration was observed to be non-linear. Following the accumulation phase, a duty cycle was applied that caused the POC to commence passive regeneration. The time taken for the POC to cleanse itself of accumulated matter and thereby eliminate the pressure drop was observed to increase with increasing fuel sulfur content. The proportion of NO leaving the POC in the form of NO₂ was also found to vary as a strong function of fuel sulfur content.
Bielaczyc, Piotr, Keskinen, Jorma, Dzida, Jakub, Sala, Rafal, Ronkko, Topi, Kinnunen, Toni, Matilainen, Pekka, Karjalainen, Panu, Happonen, Matti Juhani
Particle Oxidation Catalyst (POC ® ) - From Diesel To GDI - Studies on Particulate Number and Mass Efficiency2012-01-08454/16/2012
Legislations worldwide have started imposing stringent emission standards for particulate matter (PM) emitted by diesel engines. The main reason for these actions is the adverse effects on human health caused by particle emissions. Conventional ceramic Diesel Particulate Filters (DPF) have proven exceptionally effective in reducing particulate emissions with efficiencies of 90% or more. However, these filters require regular active regenerations as well as periodical ash removal in order to avoid a blockage of the exhaust line. These procedures are both costly and complex and as a result alternative aftertreatment solutions have been developed. One of these solutions is the Particle Oxidation Catalyst, POC-X. The main aim of the POC-X is not to equal the high efficiencies of the DPF, but to achieve the best possible particle reduction without creating the risk of blocking or the need for complex filter regeneration procedures. The substrate used in the POC-X is a fine mesh screen made of metal, which is rolled into a cylinder and placed into the exhaust line. The unique construction forms tortuous channels which run through the filter. This means that the exhaust gas can either flow through the substrate cells, which act as trapping agents for soot particles, or along the tortuous channels should the filter become overloaded. Additionally, a specially developed washcoat is applied to the substrate in order to facilitate the production of Nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), which aids the regeneration process of the filter. In an experimental study, the performance of the POC-X has been investigated using a 1.6-liter, Euro 4 diesel engine on a dynamic test bench. Sophisticated exhaust gas measurement equipment supplied by Horiba was used to evaluate soot, soluble organic fraction (SOF), particle number (PN) as well as gaseous emissions in real time (1 Hz) during stationary and dynamic measurements. For the dynamic tests, the new European driving cycle (NEDC) was used. The combination of these measurements provided an accurate performance picture of the POC-X. By evaluating a variety of POC-X sizes, the optimum filter dimensions and key parameters were determined. Furthermore, by conducting a series of particle size distribution measurements using a scanning mobility particle sizer (SMPS), the relationship between particle size and filter efficiency was investigated. Based on these results, a calculation model is being developed, which will support the design and application of the POC-X based on engine operating parameters and filter dimensions. This will allow for efficiently designed solutions to specific applications. As particulate emission limitations are also being implemented for gasoline direct injection (GDI) technologies, a new POC prototype has been tested in a GDI vehicle with a short, on-road, durability run.
Kinnunen, Toni, Matilainen, Pekka, Scheder, Daniel, Czika, Werner, Waters, David, Russ, Gerald
Identification of Transportation Battery Systems for Recycling2012-01-03514/16/2012
Electrification of the transportation industry is increasing rapidly with batteries currently the technology of choice. At the end of life, the battery chemistry used to electrify the vehicle may not be easily identifiable. A simple, common identifier is required to allow consumers, service and waste management personnel to direct unknown battery types to appropriate recyclers or secondary use markets. Recyclers also benefit from this identifier as it allows them to sort, screen for potential contamination to existing process streams, and identify the manufacturer so they may contact them to find detailed information about the battery to ensure proper and safe recycling. The SAE Battery Recycling Committee has recommended that batteries be identified by battery system, miscellaneous hazards and date of manufacture be identified as part of chemistry identification code. For the lithium-ion chemistry it is further recommended that cathode and anode be specified. To avoid confusion and duplication with other standards, the SAE identifier has selected identification letters and a color background consistent with the Battery Association of Japan's (BAJ) “Guidelines for Recycle Mark on Batteries” (1).
Mackintosh, Todd F.
Keep Lighting Green from Start to Finish With Proper Packaging and Disposal of Used Fluorescent LampsTBMG-77223/11/2010
Fluorescent lamps are a popular lighting option for businesses and consumers that are looking for ways to conserve energy and cut down on wastes. Since mercury - a very useful but very toxic element - is used to conduct the charge in fluorescent lamps, these benefits can come at a significant environmental and health risk.
Diesel Particle Emission Reduction by a Particle Oxidation Catalyst2009-01-270511/2/2009
State-of-art light duty diesel vehicles and heavy duty diesel engines are utilized in studying the effect of a novel particle oxidation catalyst (POC®) on particle emission. In addition to the regulated particulate matter (PM) emission measurement, a real time mass emission and particle number size distribution measurements are utilized in testing. The results show that the particle oxidation catalyst can have a significant decreasing effect on the diesel exhaust particle emissions. For example, in light duty applications PM reductions of 55-61% were achieved over the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC) when using a POC of same size as the engine volume. The usage of a DOC in combination with the POC ensures proper regeneration of the POC substrate. The size distribution measurements revealed that the particle number collection efficiency for smaller particles i.e. the nanoparticles was very high, being close to 100 %.
Lehtoranta, K., Matilainen, P., Kinnunen, T- J. J., Heikkilä, J., Rönkkö, T., Keskinen, J., Murtonen, T.
Experimental Study on the Air Quality of Vehicle’s Cabin by Evaluating CO 2 Concentration and Fine Dust on the Actual Road2009-01-05364/20/2009
For a complete automotive HVAC system, it is desirable to keep good air quality control for the interior vehicle cabin. This experimental study for evaluating the CO2 concentration levels in a vehicle cabin was done on the roads in South Korea. Increasing levels of CO2 can cause a passenger to become tired, sleepy and cause headaches or discomfort. The study results shows that CO2 and fine dust concentration is a result of the number of passengers,_driving condition and HVAC user settings. The result from this investigation can be used to establish a development guide for air quality in a vehicle cabin.
Park, Se-Kil, Kim, Ki-Won, Kwon, Hyuck-Yong
Anaerobic Digestion in a Flooded Densified LeachbedTBMG-50614/1/2009
A document discusses the adaptation of a patented biomass-digesting process, denoted sequential batch anaerobic composting (SEBAC), to recycling of wastes aboard a spacecraft. In SEBAC, high-solids-content biomass wastes are converted into methane, carbon dioxide, and compost.
Development and Design of a Low Temperature Solid Waste Oxidation and Water Recovery System2008-01-20526/29/2008
In February 2004 NASA released “The Vision for Space Exploration.” The goals outlined in this document include extending the human presence in the solar system, culminating in the exploration of Mars. A key requirement for this effort is to identify a safe and effective method to process waste. Methods currently under consideration include incineration, microbial oxidation, pyrolysis, drying, and compaction. Although each has advantages, no single method has yet been developed that is safe, recovers valuable resources including oxygen and water, and has low energy and space requirements. Thus, the objective of this work is to develop a low temperature oxidation process to convert waste cleanly and rapidly to carbon dioxide and water. Previously, TDA Research, Inc. demonstrated the potential of a low temperature dry oxidation process using ozone in a small laboratory reactor. Currently, TDA and NASA Ames Research Center are developing a pilot scale low temperature ozone oxidation system to convert organic waste to CO2 and H2O. The system also disinfects the waste and remaining water, and recovers not only the water content of the waste but also generates additional water that can be utilized by the crew. Tests are being conducted with model wastes in a reactor design that maximizes the contact between the reactants by mixing the waste with water, which also makes the oxidation process extremely selective to CO2 and H2O and mitigates the rapid combustion events that were seen in the dry oxidation reactor. An ozone recycle loop was recently added to the system, which significantly increased the waste oxidation rates. The reactor operating conditions were then optimized using the design of experiments technique to maximize the waste oxidation rate. Currently, a pilot scale, fully automated system is being designed that will be capable of handling many different types of waste. The waste oxidation rates achieved to date, along with current waste generation rate models, indicate that all of the waste from a single crew member in one day can be processed in a vessel ranging in size from 8.2 liters (2.2 gallons) for a short term mission to 9.9 liters (2.6 gallons) for a long term mission. In addition, if the system were used solely as a fecal matter oxidizer the reactor size would be only 0.7 liters. At the conclusion of the project the system will be delivered to NASA Ames for evaluation.
Nabity, James A., Andersen, Erik W., Engel, Jeffrey R., Wickham, David T., Fisher, John W.
Catalytic Decomposition of Gaseous Byproducts from Primary Solid Waste Treatment Technologies2008-01-20536/29/2008
Waste Management Systems (WMSs) designed for use aboard long-term spacecraft missions and within Lunar and planetary habitations must reduce volume and recover useful resources from solid wastes, as well as impart chemical and microbial stability to stored wastes. Many WMS processes produce high concentrations of toxic emissions that can periodically overwhelm Trace Contaminant Control Systems (TCCSs) designed to handle nominal atmospheric contaminants. A prototype Catalytic Oxidation System (COS) has been developed for this contingency, and when mated to different WMS processes, will treat these toxic emissions on an as-needed basis. The COS reactor utilizes a platinum and ruthenium bimetallic catalyst supported on mesoporous zirconia that is highly active and oxidizes at relatively low temperature a wide variety of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and inorganic toxic emissions produced by WMS processes. Furthermore, the COS catalyst has demonstrated stable long-term operation and resistance to catalyst poisoning. Contaminants utilized as COS challenges represent a wide range of chemical species including polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons (benzo-a-pyrene and naphthalene), aromatic hydrocarbons (benzene), organic acids (acetic acid), ketones (acetone), esters (diethyl phthalate), refractory hydrocarbons (methane), hydrogen sulfide, and carbon monoxide. The COS prototype, in which emissions are pumped into the catalytic reactor and VOC oxidation performance is evaluated using an integrated Total Hydrocarbon Analyzer (THA), was designed to easily adapt to a variety of WMS processes. In addition, the COS catalyst has successfully oxidized a complex, high concentration VOC stream generated by a laboratory scale pyrolysis reactor previously used in a NASA funded waste management program and by the Microwave Solid Waste Stabilization and Water Recovery Prototype. The future development of the COS technology will increase the range of technologies applicable to WMS and allow improvement of materials loop closure in Advanced Life Support.
Williams, Thomas W., Akse, James R., Atwater, James E., Fisher, John W.
Prototype BLSS Lunar Habitat2008-01-21866/29/2008
This paper describes a conceptual design for a prototype Bioregenerative Life Support System (BLSS) based Lunar Habitat. The overall goal of this study is to support a crew of four astronauts continually occupying the Lunar Habitat at the rim of Shackelton's Crater with 6 month re-supply and crew change-out interval. Currently under construction are four prototype Lunar Greenhouse Modules and a fifth prototype Post Harvest Module for recycling crew waste, water, and atmosphere based on this design. The proposed BLSS is highly integrated with the entire habitat and it is shown to dictate the development and design of the proposed lunar habitat prototype.
Sadler, Phil, Furfaro, Roberto, Giacomelli, Gene, Patterson, Lane
Functional architecture and development of the CAB bioregenerative system2008-01-20126/29/2008
The Bioregenerative Life Support program CAB (Controllo Ambientale Biorigenerativo) is a key element of the Italian Space Agency (ASI) Medicine & Biotechnology scientific program, set forth in the ASI Activity Plan 2006-2008 [01], [02], [03]. The CAB program team performed a one-year feasibility study of a controlled biological life support system (BLSS), allowing the regeneration of resources and the production of food for life support in long duration missions, under the prime contractorship of Thales Alenia Space - Italia, defining: State of art in the field Functional and technical requirements for the BLSS Functional architecture and preliminary sizing of a BLSS for planetary surface Development plan with associated scientific activities and technological demonstration. This paper focuses on the description of functional architecture, preliminary sizing and development of the CAB system, mainly dealing with: Plant physiology versus space environment; Crop characterization for food production; Plant cultivation technologies - nutrient delivery, illumination, automation and robotics Air regeneration for production of O2, removal of CO2, trace gas monitoring and control; Water regeneration, management and monitoring Waste processing Storage of resources Control of environmental conditions(thermal-hygrometric, pressure, radiation, etc).
Lobascio, C., Lamantea, M., Palumberi, S., Cotronei, V., Negri, B., De Pascale, S., Maggio, A., Maffei, M., Foti, M.
Preliminary Design of a Bio-Regenerative ECLSS Technological Demo Plant for Air and Water Management2008-01-20136/29/2008
Future human exploration roadmaps involve the development of temporary or permanent outposts on Moon and Mars. The capability of providing astronauts with proper conditions for living and working in extraterrestrial environments is therefore a key issue for the sustainability of those roadmaps, and closed-loop Environment Control and Life Support Systems (ECLSSs) and bio-regenerative plants represent the necessary evolution of current technologies for complying with the challenging requirements imposed. This paper presents the architectural design of a terrestrial plant to be exploited to test and validate air and water management technologies for a biological life support system in a closed environment. The plant includes a crew area and a plant growth area. These two spaces can be considered as either a unique volume or two separated environments with reduced contact, e.g. for plant harvesting or other up-keeping activities.
Lavagna, Michèle, Pieratti, Roberto, Grasso, Marco, Grizzaffi, Lucia, Saverino, Antonio
Waste Management Technology and the Drivers for Space Missions2008-01-20476/29/2008
Since the mid 1980s, NASA has developed advanced waste management technologies that collect and process waste. These technologies include incineration, hydrothermal oxidation, pyrolysis, electrochemical oxidation, activated carbon production, brine dewatering, slurry bioreactor oxidation, composting, NOx control, compaction, and waste collection. Some of these technologies recover resources such as water, oxygen, nitrogen, carbon dioxide, carbon, fuels, and nutrients. Other technologies such as the Waste Collection System (WCS - the commode) collect waste for storage or processing. The need for waste processing varies greatly depending upon the mission scenario. This paper reviews the waste management technology development activities conducted by NASA since the mid 1980s and explores the drivers that determine the application of these technologies to future missions.
Fisher, John W., Hogan, John A., Delzeit, Lance, Liggett, Travis, Wignarajah, Kanapathipillai, Alba, Ric, Litwiller, Eric, Pace, Gregory, Fox, Thomas G.
Time-resolved Emission Characteristics of Gasoline Vehicle Particle Number and Size Distributions2008-01-17506/23/2008
Particle emissions of seven gasoline vehicles were measured using an electrical low-pressure impactor (ELPI) over the new European driving cycle (NEDC). Two dilution systems were utilized: one is constant volume system (CVS) for constant exhaust volume and the other is ejector dilutor for constant dilution ratio. Then the time-resolved number concentration, size distributions and total particle number were obtained. The effects of misfire rate and oxygen sensor failure on the particle emission were also studied in order to primarily examine the on-board diagnoses of particle number emission of gasoline vehicle. The results indicate that the particles emitted by gasoline vehicles are mainly in the form of nuclei mode in diameter range from 7 nm to 55 nm. The specific number emissions vary from 1.56×1013 to 8.42×1013 particles/km and GMD ranges from 27 to 50nm. Higher misfire rate results in lower total particle number emission while oxygen sensor failure deteriorates the particle number emission of gasoline vehicle.
He, Chao, Ge, Yunshan, Tan, Jianwei, Shah, Asad Naeem, Wang, Bo
Processing Satellite Imagery To Detect Waste Tire PilesTBMG-248612/1/2007
A methodology for processing commercially available satellite spectral imagery has been developed to enable identification and mapping of waste tire piles in California. The California Integrated Waste Management Board initiated the project and provided funding for the method’s development. The methodology includes the use of a combination of previously commercially available image-processing and georeferencing software used to develop a model that specifically distinguishes between tire piles and other objects. The methodology reduces the time that must be spent to initially survey a region for tire sites, thereby increasing inspectors’ and managers’ time available for remediation of the sites. Remediation is needed because millions of used tires are discarded every year, waste tire piles pose fire hazards, and mosquitoes often breed in water trapped in tires. It should be possible to adapt the methodology to regions outside California by modifying some of the algorithms implemented in the software to account for geographic differences in spectral characteristics associated with terrain and climate.
From Wastefulness to Competitiveness2007-01-290711/28/2007
The proposal of this paper is to deal with the waste elimination and the continuous improvement management in a productive process to guarantee the passport for the global competition to companies. From a systematic vision of the existing processes, the management of the continuous improvement is a must in all levels of the organization, considering the coordination of activities, the application of problems solving technique and its solution implementation up to the measurement of the achieved results. An efficient form to reduce costs and reach the competitiveness is the application of waste elimination by techniques, methodologies and qualification. The results of successful considered companies for being “Best-in-class” in profitability demonstrate that the success is directly related to processes in the business and therefore offer high quality products, in a short period of time with a relatively lower cost.
Avelino, Ana Cristina, Campos, Sonia Teresa de Castro Coimbra
Development of a Pilot Scale Apparatus for Control of Solid Waste Using Low Temperature Oxidation2007-01-31357/9/2007
In February 2004 NASA released “The Vision for Space Exploration.” The important goals outlined in this document include extending human presence in the solar system culminating in the exploration of Mars. Unprocessed waste poses a biological hazard to crew health and morale. The waste processing methods currently under consideration include incineration, microbial oxidation, pyrolysis and compaction. Although each has advantages, no single method has yet been developed that is safe, recovers valuable resources including oxygen and water, and has low energy and space requirements. Thus, the objective of this project is to develop a low temperature oxidation process to convert waste cleanly and rapidly to carbon dioxide and water. In the Phase I project, TDA Research, Inc. demonstrated the potential of a low temperature oxidation process using ozone. In the current Phase II project, TDA and NASA Ames Research Center are developing a pilot scale low temperature ozone oxidation system. We are conducting tests in a reactor design that maximizes the contact between the ozone and the waste bed. In initial tests with a large volume reactor we were able to achieve higher oxidation rates than we obtained in the Phase I portion of this project. However, on occasion, the waste began to burn rapidly, producing high temperature and pressure spikes in the reactor. Therefore, we redesigned the reactor to mitigate the rapid ignition of the waste. In initial tests, we found that adding water to the waste bed and flowing ozone through the water-waste mixture provides much better control of the low temperature oxidation process. The addition of water likely produces a more uniform temperature throughout the waste, reducing localized hot spots that initiated the rapid combustion process. In addition, we have obtained better agreement between the gravimetric data and the results calculated with integrated CO2 data, indicating that a higher percentage of waste has been oxidized to CO2 and H2O before exiting the reactor. Once we have optimized the reactor design and waste oxidation process we will incorporate the design into a closed loop, fully automated system that will convert the waste into H2O and CO2, remove both compounds, and replenish the circulating gas stream with oxygen and ozone as needed. In addition, the system will contain the analytical equipment necessary to carry out a complete material balance and monitor the formation of pollutants such as NOX and SOX. At the conclusion of the project the system will be delivered to NASA Ames for their use and evaluation.
Wickham, David, Andersen, Erik, Engel, Jeffrey, Jones, Marcus, Fisher, John
Direct Osmotic Concentration System for Spacecraft Wastewater Recycling2007-01-30357/9/2007
Direct osmotic concentration (DOC) is a membrane treatment process for reclamation of space craft wastewater. It incorporates a novel system architecture that includes a forward osmosis (FO) and reverse osmosis (RO) subsystem for hygiene (gray) water, and a membrane distillation subsystem for the treatment of urine and humidity condensate. The products of these subsystems are combined and then post-treated by a catalytic oxidation subsystem. This paper documents progress made during the second year of a three year Rapid Technology Development Team (RTDT) effort.
Flynn, Michael, Gormly, Sherwin, Cath, Tzahi Y., Adams, V. Dean, Childress, Amy E.
The New Italian Bioregenerative Life Support Program CAB2007-01-30907/9/2007
The Bioregenerative Life Support program CAB (Controllo Ambientale Biorigenerativo) is a key element of the Italian Space Agency (ASI) Medicine & Biotechnology scientific program, set forth in the ASI Activity Plan 2006-2008. The CAB program started in October 2006, under the prime partnership of Thales Alenia Space Italia, with a feasibility study of a controlled biological system, allowing the regeneration of resources and the production of food for life support in long duration missions. Main constituents of the CAB program are (a) higher plants as basic elements for food and oxygen production, CO2 regeneration and water purification via the photosynthetic and leaf transpiration processes, and (b) biological & physico-chemical systems for environmental control, monitoring, power & data distribution, etc. The sectors of technological and scientific concern are practically all the ones typical for life support systems in the frame of long duration human missions, i.e.: Food production, in particular via the cultivation of higher plants, and food management Air regeneration (Production of O2, Removal of CO2, Trace Gas Control) Water regeneration (Urine processing, Gray water processing, Potable water management) Solid waste processing Resources allocation and storage Control of environmental conditions (Thermal-hygrometric, light, pressure, radiation, etc).
Lobascio, C., Lamantea, M., Rampini (*), R., Cotronei, V., Negri, B., De Pascale, S., Maggio, A., Maffei, M., Palumberi, S.
Microbial Characterization of Compacted vs. Non-Compacted Simulated Orion Crew Vehicle Food Trash Compartment Waste2007-01-32687/9/2007
The effects of volume-reduction via compaction (VR-C) on microbial loads and microbially-produced noxious odors during post-treatment storage were investigated. The Crew Exploration Vehicle (CEV) / Orion simulated food trash compartment wastes (FTCW) consisted of 80% food trash with packaging and 20% wipes. Compaction was compared with a non-compacted control and will provide a baseline for comparison with other treatment technologies. The first study was a timecourse with post-treatment storage durations of 1, 2, 4, and 6 weeks. Key response variables were: O2 consumption and CO2 production from waste biodegradation and microbiological assays consisting of total counts and culturable counts of (a) aerobic and anaerobic bacteria, (b) aerobic and anaerobic spore-forming bacteria, (c) specific bacteria including Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Burkholderia cepacia, and Staphylococcus aureus counts, and (d) molds at run termination. A second study with replication (n=3) and 2 weeks post-treatment storage was conducted. Microbiological parameters and VOC analysis by EPA TO15r compendium method were measured.
Strayer, R. F., Richards, J., Hummerick, M. P., Sager, J. C.
Emission Factors Analysis for Multiple Vehicles Using an On-Board, In-Use Emissions Measurement System2007-01-13274/16/2007
Despite progressive implementation of stringent emission regulations, vehicle tailpipe emissions remain the major source of air pollution problems in most urban areas. To control and reduce tailpipe pollutants, it is critical to understand in-use emissions as a basis for any future emission controls. At present, emission factors are mainly studied by chassis dynamometer methods. However, concerns have been raised about the extent to which emissions produced by on-road vehicles can be predicted using emission factors developed based on standardized dynamometer test procedures. This paper describes an on-board, in-use vehicle emissions measurement system which measures tailpipe emission rates while the vehicle is in real service experiencing complex traffic conditions, driver behavior and weather. The instantaneous mass flow rate (g/s) of fuel and five typical emission gases (NOx, HC, CO, CO2, O2) are recorded along with operating parameters such as mass air flow, vehicle speed, engine speed, ambient temperature, coolant temperature, etc. The equipment consists of an ECM OBD-II scanner, a mass air flow meter and two emissions analyzers, coordinated and recorded by a laptop computer. The measurement package is adapted for easy transition from vehicle to vehicle and, at only 17 kg (38 lbs), has minimal impact on vehicle operation. The paper presents a set of vehicle emission factors based on sixty on-road tests with five typical mid-life vehicles in urban, highway and aggressive driving situations. Tailpipe emission factors for HC, CO and NOx are developed in terms of g/kW.h, g/km and g/kgFuel. Based on these emission functions and the idle emission rate measurements, an emission model is developed for estimating the variation of tailpipe cumulative emissions for vehicles experiencing real-world driving conditions which are significantly different from the standard test sequences.
Gao, Yutong, Checkel, M. David
Detection of Gasoline Vehicles with Gross PM Emissions2007-01-11134/16/2007
Light duty gasoline vehicles (LDGV) are estimated to contribute 40% of the total on-road mobile source tailpipe emissions of particulate matter (PM) in California. While considerable efforts have been made to reduce toxic diesel PM emissions going into the future, less emphasis has been placed on PM from LDGVs. The goals of this work were to characterize a small fleet of visibly smoking and high PM emitting LDGVs, to explore the potential PM-reduction benefits of Smog Check and of repairs, and to examine remote sensing devices (RSD) as a potential method for identifying high PM emitters in the in-use fleet. For this study, we recruited a fleet of eight vehicles covering a spectrum of PM emission levels. PM and criteria pollutant emissions were quantified on a dynamometer and CVS dilution tunnel system over the Unified Cycle using standard methods and real time PM instruments. The vehicles were then tested using RSD equipment over a test track, tested with a standard Smog Check, and tested with a screening device during the Smog Check. The PM emission rates of the visibly smoking vehicles range from 60 to 1718 mg/mi over the UC cycle. The light or invisible smokers had PM emissions ranging from 7 to 25 mg/mi. The smoking vehicles showed particle number rates on the order of 1013∼1014 particles/mi, which are 10∼1000 times higher than typical FTP particle number emission rates for modern low emitting gasoline vehicles. Vehicles that had higher emission rates over the UC tests generally showed higher emissions as measured by RSD systems for the gaseous species. The relationship or scale factor between RSD PM emissions and filter mass emissions is different for each RSD method and wavelength, and also appears to be different for black smoke than blue smoke. The effects of repairs have not yet been assessed.
Li, Wei, Collins, John F., Durbin, Thomas D., Huai, Tao, Ayala, Alberto, Full, Gary, Mazzoleni, Claudio, Nussbaum, Nicholas J., Obrist, Daniel, Zhu, Dongzi, Kuhns, Hampden D., Moosmüller, Hans
Catalytic Decomposition of Gaseous Byproducts from Primary Solid Waste Treatment Technologies2006-01-21287/17/2006
Several solid waste management (SWM) systems currently under development for spacecraft deployment result in the production of a variety of toxic gaseous contaminants. Examples include the Plastic Melt Waste Compactor (PMWC) at NASA - Ames Research Center1, the Oxidation/Pyrolysis system at Advanced Fuel Research2, and the Microwave Powered Solid Waste Stabilization and Water Recovery (MWSWS&WR) System at UMPQUA Research Company (URC). The current International Space Station (ISS) airborne contaminant removal system, the Trace Contaminant Control Subassembly (TCCS), is designed to efficiently process nominal airborne contaminants in spacecraft cabin air. However, the TCCS has no capability to periodically process the highly concentrated toxic vapors of variable composition, which are generated during solid waste processing, without significant modifications. To overcome this limitation, a gas-phase catalytic oxidation system, based on a high activity platinum - ruthenium bimetallic catalyst, is under development at URC to rapidly oxidize these contaminants and eliminate the release of toxic gases from solid waste treatment systems. The proof of concept catalytic oxidation reactor was challenged with four contaminants: carbon monoxide, benzene, naphthalene, and diethylphthalate. These contaminants represent typical solid waste processing byproducts and include a highly toxic inorganic gas, a typical volatile aromatic, a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH), and a plasticizer, respectively. The catalytic oxidation of each contaminant was evaluated over a range of concentrations, flow rates, and reaction temperatures. The experimental results summarized in this paper demonstrate very high rates of conversion of these toxic vapors to innocuous gases, primarily CO2 and H2O, at low temperatures, and indicate superior performance to that of current state-of-the-art catalysts.
Williams, Thomas W., Akse, James R., Atwater, James E., Fisher, John W.
Commercialization of Silica-Titania Composites, a NASA Gray Water Post-Processor Technology, for Terrestrial Applications2006-01-20097/17/2006
Silica-titania composites have been engineered and proven to be a plausible post-processor technology for water recovery. The premise behind this technology is the adsorption and subsequent mineralization of organic compounds. Concurrent with this NASA-based research, faculty at the University of Florida have explored the efficacy of this technology for additional applications. Those that have shown the most promise include greater than 98% removal of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and Hazardous Air Pollutants (HAPs) from pulp and paper mills and greater than 99% removal of mercury from coal-fired power plant flue gas. Both of these industries are facing pressing regulations that may be implemented as early as 2006. As a result of these initial successes, faculty at the University of Florida have initiated a start-up company, Sol-Gel Solutions, LLC to commercialize the silica-titania composite technology for the aforementioned applications and others that are currently being investigated.
Mazyck, David W.
Simultaneous Biodegradation of a Two-Phase Fluid: Discolored Biofilm Issues2006-01-22567/17/2006
Three replicate aerobic-heterotrophic biotrickling filters were designed to promote the simultaneous biodegradation of graywater and a waste gas containing NH3, H2S and CO2. Upon visual observation of discolored solids, it was originally hypothesized that gas-phase CO2 concentrations were excessive, causing regions of anoxic zones to form within the biotrickling filters. Observed discolored (black) biofilm of this nature is typically assumed to be either lysed bacterial cells or anaerobic regions, implying alteration of operational conditions. Solid (biofilm) samples were collected in the presence and absence of gas-phase wastestream(s) to determine if the gas-phase contaminants were contributing to the solid-phase discoloration. Two sets of experiments (shaker flask and solids characterization) were conduced to determine the nature of the discolored solids. Results indicated that the discolored solids were neither anaerobic bacteria nor lysed cells. The solids were organic in nature and contain active aerobic-heterotrophic bacteria. Future work will attempt to characterize the discolored solid-phase more accurately.
McLamore, Eric, Huang, Zhen, Sharvelle, Sybil, Banks, Kathy
Methodology Proposal for Emission Tests with Laboratory Simulation of an Urban Drive Route2005-01-405611/22/2005
This paper presents a methodology proposed by the PETROBRAS Research Centre (CENPES) to simulate in a laboratory a route performed during field emission tests run with an on-board emission measurement system. It also includes the procedure followed to build the drive cycle and to implement it at the CENPES' Vehicle Test Laboratory. Laboratory simulation of local urban routes, for instance, allows analyzing the impact of a new fuel formulation on the emission levels of a local fleet with higher accuracy and repeatability, as the test conditions can be better controlled. The usage of on-board emission measurement systems is more expensive and is subject to fluctuations in the traffic conditions, making comparative tests more difficult. In order to generate the new cycle, data acquired during the field tests was used to determine speed profiles and an average speed distribution was calculated. The cycle was implemented at the laboratory after analyses of the gear shift points, driving behaviour and gas sampling phases. Emission tests were run following this new cycle, and in this paper their results are evaluated and compared with results obtained when following the Brazilian standard ABNT NBR 6601, used to homologate light duty vehicles in the country. This standard is based on the part 86 of the US CFR Title 40, and uses the EPA 75 drive cycle.
de Carvalho, Rogério Nascimento, de Melo, Tadeu Cordeiro Cavalcante, Barbosa, Carlos Henrique Costa
F/A-22 Sustainability – Supporting Mission and Operational Success2005-01-330410/3/2005
1.0 F/A-22 Sustainability is critical for weapon system mission success and operational base sustainability. Sustainability is a systems based framework which integrates environment, health, and community issues into weapon system design, performance and lifecycle. This presentation identifies proactive F/A-22 Sustainability accomplishments and quantifies ESH/community footprint reductions, using The Natural Step sustainability model. Topics include transformational performance efficiencies, Hazardous Materials Program implementation, design for environment, proactive quantified risk assessment process, and demilitarization and disposal. Support of pilot and maintainer safety, community needs, and Air Force base site activation and sustainment are discussed. F/A-22 Sustainability reduces F/A-22 total program ownership costs, by proactively reducing the lifecycle environment, health and community footprint.
Denny, Arline, Scott, Jared
Gravity Effects on Premixed and Diffusion Limited Supercritical Water Oxidation2005-01-30367/11/2005
Supercritical water oxidation (SCWO) may become an attractive technology for processing solid and liquid wastes for long duration space and extraterrestrial planetary missions. Gravitational influences on the operation of SCWO reactors are discussed in the context of key dimensionless parameters for two general modes of operation: a “premixed” mode, where the reactants are brought to supercritical temperatures and pressures simultaneously, and a “diffusion limited” mode, where one of the reactants (typically the oxidizer) is injected into the reactor after the bulk fluid is raised to supercritical temperatures and pressures. An experimental facility for testing the gravitational influences on a SCWO reactor is then discussed.
Hicks, M. C., Lauver, R. W., Hegde, U. G., Hall, D. G., Sikora, T. J.
Loading Balance and Influent pH in a Solids Thermophilic Aerobic Reactor2005-01-29827/11/2005
The application of biological treatment to solid waste is very promising to facilitate recycling of water, carbon, and nutrients and to reduce the resupply needs of long-term crewed space missions. Degradation of biodegradable solid wastes generated during such a mission is under investigation as part of the NASA Center of Research and Training (NSCORT) at Purdue University. Processing in the solids thermophilic aerobic reactor (STAR) involves the use of high temperature micro-aerobic slurry conditions to degrade solid wastes, enabling the recycling of water, carbon, and nutrients for further downstream uses. Related research presently underway includes technical development and optimization of STAR operations as well as a complementary evaluation of post-STAR processing for gas-stream purification, water recovery by condensate purification, and residuals utilization for both mushroom growth media and nutritional support for fish growth. In optimizing the STAR system, factors including solids loading, influent characteristics, and operational parameters can all impact the efficiency of the system. There will be a threshold solids concentration above which failure of the system will occur. In the evaluation of STAR to determine this ceiling loading concentration, the related importance of initial pH of the influent during start-up and the potential use of initial pH control was studied. This document will present an overview of recent progress and performance results for this STAR system, including the effects of solids loading and pH on performance.
Whitaker, Dawn R., Staton, Kevin L., Alleman, James E., Lane, John W.
MELISSA: Overview of the Project and Perspectives2005-01-30667/11/2005
The MELISSA (Micro-Ecological Life Support Alternative) project was initiated in 1989. The recycling system is conceived as a micro-organisms and higher plants based ecosystem. As a matter of fact, it is intended as a tool to gain understanding of closed life support, as well as the development of the technology for a future life support system for long term manned space missions, e.g. a lunar base or a mission to Mars. The collaboration was established through a Memorandum of Understanding and is managed by ESA. It involves several independent organisations: University of Ghent, EPAS, SCK, VITO (B), University of Clermont Ferrand, SHERPA (F), University “Autonoma” of Barcelona (E), University of Guelph (CND). It is co-funded by ESA, the MELISSA partners, the Belgian (DWTC), the Spanish (CIRIT and CICYT) and Canadian (CRESTech, CSA) authorities. The driving element of MELISSA is the production of food water and oxygen from organic waste (inedible biomass, CO2, faeces, urea). Based on the principle of an “aquatic” ecosystem, MELISSA process comprises 5 compartments from the anoxygenic fermenter up to the photosynthetic one (algae and higher plants). The choice of this compartmentalised structure is required by the very high level of safety requirements and justified by the need of an engineering approach and to build deterministic control strategy. During the past 15 years of research and development, a very progressive approach has been developed to understand and control the MELISSA loop. This approach starts from the selection of the microbial strains and higher plant crops, their characterisation and mathematical modelling, the validation of the control strategy, up to the demonstration on Earth, at pilot scale. The project is organised in 5 phases: Basic R&D, Preliminary flight experiment, Ground & space demonstration, Terrestrial transfer, Education & communication.
Lasseur, Ch., Paillé, C., Lamaze, B., Rebeyre, P., Rodriguez, A., Ordonez, L., Marty, F.
In Situ Production of High Density Polyethylene and Other Useful Materials on Mars2005-01-27767/11/2005
One of the largest single mass penalties required to support the human exploration of Mars is the surface habitat structural mass. Reducing the amount of structural material that must be launched from Earth to provide a habitat will reduce the cost of future missions. This paper describes the use of physical chemical technologies to produce high-density polyethylene for use as structural/construction materials from Mars atmospheric carbon dioxide. The formation of polyethylene from Mars carbon dioxide is based on the use of the Sabatier and modified Fischer Tropsch reactions. The system describe can be fully integrate with planned Mars in situ propellant production concepts.
Flynn, Michael, Rosenberg, Sanders D.
A Prototype Pyrolysis / Oxidation System for Solid Waste Processing2005-01-30837/11/2005
Pyrolysis is a very versatile waste processing technology which can be tailored to produce a variety of solid liquid and/or gaseous products. The main disadvantages of pyrolysis processing are: (1) the product stream is more complex than for many of the alternative treatments; (2) the product gases cannot be vented directly into the cabin without further treatment because of the high CO concentrations. One possible solution is to combine a pyrolysis step with catalytic oxidation (combustion) of the effluent gases. This integration takes advantage of the best features of each process, which is insensitivity to product mix, no O2 consumption, and batch processing, in the case of pyrolysis, and simplicity of the product effluent stream in the case of oxidation. In addition, this hybrid process has the potential to result in a significant reduction in Equivalent System Mass (ESM) and system complexity. This paper describes the development of a prototype hybrid pyrolysis/oxidation system which can process up to 100 grams of material. The prototype includes a multi-stage reactor and product collection, process monitoring and process control systems. Initial experiments have been done with wheat straw, as well as with chicken litter and chicken manure as analogs for human waste.
Serio, Michael, Kroo, Erik, Florczak, Elizabeth, Wójtowicz, Marek, Wignarajah, Kanapathipillai, Fisher, John
Magnetically Assisted Gasification of Solid Wastes: Comparison of Reaction Strategies2005-01-30817/11/2005
Gradient magnetically assisted fluidized bed (G-MAFB) methods are under development for the decomposition of solid waste materials in microgravity and hypogravity environments. The G-MAFB has been demonstrated in both laboratory and microgravity flight experiments. In this paper we summarize the results of gasification reactions conducted under a variety of conditions, including: combustion, pyrolysis (thermal decomposition), and steam reforming with and without oxygen addition. Wheat straw, representing a typical inedible plant biomass fraction, was chosen for this study because it is significantly more difficult to gasify than many other typical forms of solid waste such as food scraps, feces, and paper. In these experiments, major gasification products were quantified, including: ash, char, tar, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, methane, oxygen, and hydrogen. These data illustrate the variation of reaction byproducts, which result from the different solid waste decomposition reaction schemes and provide the basis for the design of mission specific magnetically assisted gasification reactors.
Atwater, James E., Akse, James R., Wheeler, Richard R., Dahl, Roger W., Hadley, Neal M., Jovanovic, Goran N., Fisher, John W.
Space-based SEBAC-II Solid Waste Management Technology for Commercial Application to Beet Sugar Industry2005-01-30267/11/2005
This paper describes an opportunity for commercial application of NASA space-based technology. Specifically, it describes application of the University of Florida's patented space-based SEBAC-II solid waste management technology to the US beet sugar industry. The project is entitled “Conversion of Biomass into Energy and Compost through Sequential Batch Anaerobic Composting”, and is being funded by the Xcel Energy Renewable Development Fund. It will be carried out by a team of researchers from the University of Florida in partnership with American Crystal Sugar Company (ACSC) of Moorhead, MN, and Minnesota Technology Inc. (MTI) in Minneapolis, MN. American Crystal Sugar generates 400 tons of sugar beet tailings daily. These tailings are a waste by-product of the raw sugar beet receiving, handling and washing operations. Currently, the company pays to have this material hauled away at the rate of 16 truckloads per day. At the same time the company purchases 3 - 5 million cubic feet of natural gas daily to fire the rotary kiln dryers used in processing the spent beet pulp into animal feed pellets. Anaerobic digestion of the sugar beet tailings into methane and compost could substantially reduce the cost of energy and waste management for American Crystal Sugar. This paper presents results from laboratory studies that were carried out to determine the feasibility of converting the waste beet tailings into methane gas and compost. Additionally, the paper will discuss projected economic feasibility for American Crystal Sugar, and impact to the US beet sugar industry.
Teixeira, Arthur A., Chynoweth, David P., Owens, John M., Pullammanappallil, Pratap, Riley, Kristen J., Sheehan, William J.
Automated SEBAC-II Prototype Solid Waste Management System for Long Term Space Mission2005-01-30257/11/2005
This paper reports on design improvements made to a full-scale prototype solid waste management system designed to support a 6-person crew on long-term space missions. The original system design is based on Sequential Batch Anaerobic Composting (SEBAC), a patented process for odorless bioconversion of organic solid wastes to methane and compost by anaerobic digestion. The system consists of five reactors and two gas-liquid separators designed for operation under closed conditions in micro-gravity. During any week of operation, one reactor is being used for feed collection and compaction, three for stage-wise anaerobic composting, and one for post-treatment by aerobic stabilization while simultaneously serving as a bio-filter in the pretreatment of cabin air within the air revitalization subsystem. Previous work resulted in preliminary operating performance data that revealed the need for further design improvements [1]. This paper will present the results from design improvements including a control system for flow reversal of leachate through the system to accomplish higher efficiency and minimize channeling of leachate through feedstock beds during pressurized pumping operations.
Luniya, Suneet S., Teixeira, Arthur A., Owens, John M., Pullammanappallil, Pratap C., Liu, Wei
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