Browse Topic: Water treatment

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Products of Tomorrow: February 2020TBMG-359682/1/2020
This column presents technologies that have applications in commercial areas, possibly creating the products of tomorrow. To learn more about each technology, see the contact information provided for that innovation.
Process Turns Sand and Plant Materials into a Water Filtration ToolTBMG-358191/1/2020
According to the United Nations, 2.1 billion people lack access to safely managed drinking water services and the majority live in developing nations. A process was developed that uses sand and plant materials readily available in many developing nations to create a cheap and effective water filtration medium called “f-sand.” F-sand uses proteins from the Moringa oleifera plant, a tree native to India that grows well in tropical and subtropical climates. The tree is cultivated for food and natural oils, and the seeds are already used for a type of rudimentary water purification; however, this traditional means of purification leaves behind high amounts of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) from the seeds, allowing bacteria to regrow after just 24 hours. This leaves only a short window in which the water is drinkable.
2019 'Create the Future' Sustainable Technologies Category Winner: Wave-Powered Water DesalinationTBMG-3544911/1/2019
Rose-Inspired Device Collects and Purifies WaterTBMG-3527610/1/2019
A new device, inspired by a rose, inexpensively collects and purifies water. The device is a new approach to solar steaming for water production — a technique that uses energy from sunlight to separate salt and other impurities from water through evaporation.
New Imaging Method Aids in Water DecontaminationTBMG-351669/1/2019
A breakthrough imaging technique developed by Cornell researchers shows promise in decontaminating water by yielding surprising and important information about catalyst particles that can't be obtained any other way.
Products of Tomorrow: August 2019TBMG-348868/1/2019
This column presents technologies that have applications in commercial areas, possibly creating the products of tomorrow. To learn more about each technology, see the contact information provided for that innovation.
Feasibility Study of Portable Water Desalination Systems for Water Contingencies at Remote Navy InstallationsTBMG-348628/1/2019
The Department of the Navy (DON) has major installations located around the world. Twenty-two main installations operate outside the continental United States (OCONUS) and rely on on-base water processing facilities. These facilities serve a total population of 71,000 military and civilian personnel, and the water plants have a total production capacity of 15.7 million gallons per day.
Feasibility Study of Portable Water Desalination Systems for Water Contingencies at Remote Navy Installations19AERP08_078/1/2019
Navy explores ways to ensure an uninterrupted supply of potable water at remote installations. NAVFAC Expeditionary Program Office (NEPO), Washington Navy Yard, DC The Department of the Navy (DON) has major installations located around the world. Twenty-two main installations operate outside the continental United States (OCONUS) and rely on on-base water processing facilities. These facilities serve a total population of 71,000 military and civilian personnel, and the water plants have a total production capacity of 15.7 million gallons per day. A significant majority of these locations use a Reverse Osmosis (RO) system for water purification. At many of these installations, the RO systems provide the only reliable potable water source for personnel. Providing potable water is a critical and core mission of the Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC).
Products of Tomorrow: April 2019TBMG-341624/1/2019
This column presents technologies that have applications in commercial areas, possibly creating the products of tomorrow. To learn more about each technology, see the contact information provided for that innovation.
Pre-Treatment Solution for Water RecoveryTBMG-341694/1/2019
The Pre-Treatment Solution for Water Recovery technology was developed by NASA Johnson Space Center innovators to increase the amount of potable water recovered from the International Space Station’s urine processor assembly system. The solution increased the water recovery rate in the ISS distiller from 75 to 90 percent, doubled the volume of feed processed per cycle, reduced the volume of brine by half, and eliminated the formation of precipitate up to 90% water recovery.
System Selectively Sequesters Toxins from WaterTBMG-339243/1/2019
Traditional methods, such as reverse osmosis, that remove contaminants from water are expensive and energy-intensive. Researchers have developed technology to remove contaminants from water, but only as many as necessary.
High-Voltage Power Line Multi-Sensor SystemTBMG-336942/1/2019
Government infrastructure facilities such as water treatment facilities, power plants, laboratories, and the like may be targets for terrorist attacks. Similarly, oil pipelines, power grids, warehouses, factories, laboratories, and the like in the commercial sector may be targeted by terrorists or persons engaging in industrial espionage and sabotage. When these facilities are remotely located, the limited or nonexistent power sources in the area may prevent or severely restrict the employment of cameras, sensors, and other intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) devices. Thus, there is a need to overcome these limitations while providing around-the-clock persistent support and similar capabilities.
Savannah River National LaboratoryTBMG-336832/1/2019
The Savannah River National Laboratory (SRNL) — located in Aiken, SC — is the applied research and development laboratory at the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) Savannah River Site (SRS). The laboratory applies state-of-the-art science to provide practical, high-value, cost-effective solutions to complex technical problems. SRNL technologies are used to detect weapons of mass destruction, clean up contaminated groundwater and soil, develop hydrogen as an energy source, support the need for a viable national defense, and safely manage hazardous materials.
Innovators Recognized for "Creating the Future" 2018TBMG-3340412/1/2018
Analysis of Molecules in Liquids on a ChipTBMG-288725/1/2018
Much can be detected in blood or urine — viral illnesses, metabolic disorders, or autoimmune diseases can be diagnosed with laboratory tests, for instance. But such examinations often take a few hours and are quite complex, which is why doctors hand the samples over to specialist laboratories.
Ultralight, Scalable, High-Temperature-Resilient Ceramic Nanofiber SpongesTBMG-275229/1/2017
Researchers have made ultralight, highly porous, compressible, and heat-resistant sponge-like materials from nanoscale ceramic fibers. The highly deformable material is made by tangling ceramic nanofibers into a sponge. The method used is inexpensive and scalable for making large quantities.
Water-Based, Recyclable Membrane Filters all Types of NanoparticlesTBMG-275349/1/2017
Separation technology is at the heart of water purification, sewage treatment, and reclaiming materials, as well as numerous basic industrial processes. Membranes are used to separate out the smallest nanoscale particles, and even molecules and metal ions. A new type of membrane was developed that could extend the life of a separation system, lower its cost, and in some cases, increase its efficiency as well.
System, Apparatus, and Method for Liquid PurificationTBMG-268675/1/2017
Scientists at NASA's Glenn Research Center have developed a unique water purification method that can be used for water recycling or point-of-use applications. Originally developed as a means to recycle water in space, this technology has applications in industrial water treatment, water recycling, and water purification for military bases, disaster sites, and regions without easy access to clean water. Relying on only electrical energy, this technology uses plasma-generated reactive species to decompose organic contaminants, ranging from submicron particles to water soluble organics like glycol, ethanol, and industrial dyes.
Filtering Molecules with Nanotube TechnologyTBMG-263602/1/2017
Innovators at NASA's Johnson Space Center have developed a filtration device to eliminate contaminants from water supplies. Originally developed to purify waste-water for reuse aboard the International Space Station, the innovation is applicable to numerous situations on Earth where there is a need to collect potable, medical-grade water from a contaminated water supply. The unique aspect of the technology is its use of acoustics, rather than pressure, to drive water through small-diameter carbon nanotubes. The invention requires less power than conventional filtration systems, and is well-suited to a variety of water processing needs.
Researchers Create Customized Proteins from 'Bacterial Builders'TBMG-2596211/20/2016
Researchers from Wyss Institute have revealed a scalable method for building biomaterials from protein structures known as "amyloids." Ongoing work in the lab will focus on fabricating a wide variety of materials, including hydrogels that can interface with the body.
Argonne centers to focus on expediting commercialization of technology16OFHP02_072/1/2016
When it comes to enablers for a variety of future technologies that will move the industry forward in terms of efficiencies and cleanliness of power and energy, it is most often advances in energy storage that rise to the top in terms of necessities, and close behind is the pinpoint exploitation of nanotechnology. As experts at Argonne National Laboratory see it, grid-level storage can help reduce carbon emissions through the increased adoption of renewable energy and use of electric vehicles while helping bring electricity to developing parts of the world. At the same time, nanotechnology is transforming the electronics industry and bringing a new set of powerful tools and materials to engineers who are developing new ways to generate, store, and transport energy through new catalytic nanomaterials.
Broge, Jean L.
Habitat Water Wall for Water, Solids, and Atmosphere Recycle and ReuseTBMG-2302410/1/2015
A method was developed that allows water recycling, air treatment, thermal control, and solid residuals treatment and recycle to be removed from the usable habitat volume and placed in the walls of a radiation-shielding water wall. This design also provides a mechanism to recover and reuse water treatment (solid) residuals to strengthen the habitat shell.
Design and Engineering of Process Plants Based on the “Lego Principle”TBMG-225288/1/2015
Manufacturers in the process industries need to adjust to smaller batches and different types of product in the same plant. Plants based on the “Lego principle” are designed and engineered precisely to the respective task, whether for the production of a specific product in units per time unit, or for the throughput of a specific substance in a quantity per time unit. The mechanical design of the plant as a whole is geared towards meeting specifications and guaranteeing the required performance data over the projected lifecycle of the plant. The corresponding automation is carried out using management systems comprising process-specific (control) components, operating and monitoring stations, as well as engineering stations. The entire process is centrally controlled by a single management system.
Products of Tomorrow: August 2015TBMG-226598/1/2015
The technologies NASA develops don’t just blast off into space. They also improve our lives here on Earth. Life-saving search-and-rescue tools, implantable medical devices, advances in commercial aircraft safety, increased accuracy in weather forecasting, and the miniature cameras in our cellphones are just some of the examples of NASA-developed technology used in products today.
Use of Electrochemical Analysis Method in EG Steel Nubbing Investigation2015-01-07324/14/2015
A surface phenomenon associated with the localized excessive growth of phosphate crystals on electrogalvanized (EG) steel is investigated. The excessive phosphate growth (i.e., “nubbing”) is found to correspond to pitting of the EG zinc coating during the degreasing process. In an industry first, alkaline degreasers of varying type are studied using electrochemical analysis and a correlation is found between the EG steel pitting potential and nubbing severity of pre-treated EG steel. Electrochemical analysis of lab-prepared degreaser samples confirms that degreaser pH is primarily responsible for pitting severity. Pretreatment parameter changes are discussed as being able to prevent such a phenomenon.
Dula, Matthew, Eich, Heather, VanBelle, Nicole, Mohankumar, Prasanth, Arnold, Bryan D.
Brine Residual in ContainmentTBMG-195635/1/2014
Improvements in brine water recovery are critical to advancing NASA’s goals for human exploration of space. Water recovery systems must minimize the need for new supplies of clean water by closing the water loop. To accomplish this, water losses must be minimized or eliminated. A major loss of water is the brine produced by the primary water processor. For current technologies, this loss can be up to 15%.
Non-Toxic, Anti-Corrosive, Crystalline Waterproofing MaterialTBMG-1767811/1/2013
This product is an efficient concrete waterproofing solution. The crystalline, anti-corrosive material features a patented eka-molecular-sieve structure. The cement-based material works with the matrix of cement and water to create crystals that block the pores and capillaries in the concrete, making it impervious to water and corrosives. The material cures within 24 hours without any special ventilation. It continues to penetrate into the substrate as long as water is present. It will lay dormant in the substrate for years without the presence of water; however, if water attempts to enter at a future date through hairline cracks, the chemicals once again will become active and block the passage of water, creating a self-healing capability.
Sustainable Technologies Category Winner (Winner of an HP Workstation)TBMG-1516111/1/2012
Bill Zebuhr, Scott Newquist, David Dussault, E. Andrew Condon, Steven Sahagian, Nicholas Wong, Michael Easton, William Burie, Charles Blanchard, and Nicole Sandoval, Aquaback Technologies, Tewksbury, MA
Water Treatment Systems for Long SpaceflightsTBMG-1509711/1/2012
Space exploration will require new life support systems to support the crew on journeys lasting from a few days to several weeks, or longer. These systems should also be designed to reduce the mass required to keep humans alive in space. Water accounts for about 80 percent of the daily mass intake required to keep a person alive. As a result, recycling water offers a high return on investment for space life support. Water recycling can also increase mission safety by providing an emergency supply of drinking water, where another supply is exhausted or contaminated.
Research Opens Doors To UV Disinfection Using LED TechnologyTBMG-144127/1/2012
Research being done at North Carolina State University will allow the development of energy-efficient LED devices that use ultraviolet (UV) light to kill pathogens such as bacteria and viruses. The technology has a wide array of applications ranging from drinking-water treatment to sterilizing surgical tools.
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.
Molecular Technique to Reduce PCR Bias for Deeper Understanding of Microbial DiversityTBMG-135735/1/2012
Current planetary protection policies require that spacecraft targeted to sensitive solar system bodies be assembled and readied for launch in controlled cleanroom environments. A better understanding of the distribution and frequency at which high-risk contaminant microbes are encountered on spacecraft surfaces would significantly aid in assessing the threat of forward contamination. However, despite a growing understanding of the diverse microbial populations present in cleanrooms, less abundant microbial populations are probably not adequately taken into account due to technological limitations. This novel approach encompasses a wide spectrum of microbial species and will represent the true picture of spacecraft cleanroom-associated microbial diversity.
Micro-Cavity ArraysTBMG-141953/1/2012
It was not too long ago that basic science lectures began with the three forms of matter: gases, liquids and solids—and somewhere along the line plasmas were occasionally added to the list. But to be precise, a plasma is an ionized gas; thus, a subset of the big three. But this subset has coexisted with the other forms since the Big Bang and actually makes up 99 percent of the universe. It is found in our Sun and all the other stars, and in more down to earth applications such as neon signs, plasma TVs, cathode ray tubes, and the ubiquitous fluorescent light.
PMA-PhyloChip DNA Microarray To Elucidate Viable Microbial Community StructureTBMG-1224112/1/2011
Since the Viking missions in the mid- 1970s, traditional culture-based methods have been used for microbial enumeration by various NASA programs. Viable microbes are of particular concern for spacecraft cleanliness, for forward contamination of extraterrestrial bodies (proliferation of microbes), and for crew health/safety (viable pathogenic microbes). However, a “true” estimation of viable microbial population and differentiation from their dead cells using the most sensitive molecular methods is a challenge, because of the stability of DNA from dead cells.
Freeing Water From Viruses and BacteriaTBMG-99275/1/2011
Argonide Corporation, a company focused on the research, production, and marketing of specialty nano-materials, was seeking to develop applications for its NanoCeram® fibers. Only 2 nanometers in diameter, these nano aluminum oxide fibers possessed unusual bio-adhesive properties. When formulated into a filter material, the electropositive fibers attracted and retained electronegative particles such as bacteria and viruses in water-based solutions. This technology caught the interest of NASA as a possible solution for improved water filtration in space cabins.
NASA Water Purification Improves Dental CareTBMG-93183/1/2011
Going to the dentist is always a less-than-welcome experience. However, a water purification technology developed for NASA could lead to a more satisfying end result and cleaner teeth.
Electrochemical Hydrogen Peroxide GeneratorTBMG-862510/1/2010
Two-electron reduction of oxygen to produce hydrogen peroxide is a much researched topic. Most of the work has been done in the production of hydrogen peroxide in basic media, in order to address the needs of the pulp and paper industry. However, peroxides under alkaline conditions show poor stabilities and are not useful in disinfection applications. There is a need to design electrocatalysts that are stable and provide good current and energy efficiencies to produce hydrogen peroxide under acidic conditions.
In-Line Filtration Improves Hygiene and Reduces ExpenseTBMG-651011/1/2009
Water is highly prized in the unforgiving realm of space travel and habitation. Ample water reserves for drinking, food preparation, and bathing would take up an inordinate amount of storage space and infrastructure, which is always at a premium on a vessel or station. Water rationing and recycling are thus an essential part of daily life and operations on the space shuttles and International Space Station (ISS). The Environmental Control and Life Support System (ECLSS), under continuing development at Marshall Space Flight Center in Alabama, helps astronauts use and reuse their supplies of water.
Benchtop Antigen Detection Technique Using Nanofiltration and Fluorescent DyesTBMG-52325/1/2009
The designed benchtop technique is primed to detect bacteria and viruses from antigenic surface marker proteins in solutions, initially water. This inclusive bio-immunoassay uniquely combines nanofiltration and near infrared (NIR) dyes conjugated to antibodies to isolate and distinguish microbial antigens, using laser excitation and spectrometric analysis. The project goals include detecting microorganisms aboard the International Space Station, space shuttle, Crew Exploration Vehicle (CEV), and human habitats on future Moon and Mars missions, ensuring astronaut safety. The technique is intended to improve and advance water contamination testing both commercially and environmentally as well. Lastly, this streamlined technique poses to greatly simplify and expedite testing of pathogens in complex matrices, such as blood, in hospital and laboratory clinics.
Consumer Products Category WinnerTBMG-50564/1/2009
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.
International Space Station Water Usage Analysis2008-01-20096/29/2008
The International Space Station (ISS) recycles water to reduce the expense of launching water on resupply vehicles. However, since these recovery systems cannot recover 100% of all water used, some resupply is needed. Water consumption, as well as water recovery, varies from crew to crew making it difficult to judge how much water is needed and when. Therefore, the ground team tracks the water usage of the crew and determines a representative rate to predict each Expedition's water needs and identify trends in changing rates. This paper describes the analyses conducted to determine how much water each crew is using for drinking and hygiene purposes and how much is used for oxygen generation. It will also show how the water usage evolved over the last three Expeditions and compare these results to the published consumables tracking reports and the Russian water specialist reports. Finally, it will show the rate trends to help better conduct resupply planning and help the designers of future manned space vehicles.
Kulhanjian, Ara, Yeoman, David A., Philistine, Cynthia L.
International Space Station USOS Potable Development Water Dispenser2008-01-20106/29/2008
The International Space Station (ISS) Russian Segment currently provides potable water dispensing capability for crewmember food and beverage rehydration. All ISS crewmembers rehydrate Russian and U.S. style food packages from this location. A new United States On-orbit Segment (USOS) Potable Water Dispenser (PWD) is under development. This unit will provide additional potable water dispensing capability to support an on-orbit crew of six. The PWD is designed to provide incremental quantities of hot and ambient temperature potable water to U.S. style food packages. It will receive iodinated water from the Fuel Cell Water Bus in the U.S. Laboratory element. The unit will provide potable-quality water, including active removal of biocidal iodine prior to dispensing. A heater assembly contained within the unit will be able to supply up to 2.0 liters of hot water (65 to 93°C) every thirty minutes. This quantity will allow three to four crewmembers to rehydrate their food and beverages from this location during a single meal. The unit is designed to remain functional for up to ten years with replacement of limited life items such as filters. It will be the size of two stacked Shuttle Middeck lockers (approximately the size of two small suitcases) and integrated into a science payload rack in the U.S. Laboratory element. Providing potable-quality water at the proper temperature for food and beverage reconstitution is critical to maintaining crew health and well-being. The numerous engineering challenges as well as human factors and safety considerations during the concept, design, and prototyping are outlined in this paper.
Shaw, Laura A., Barreda, Jose L.
Simultaneous TOC Reduction and Biofouling Prevention in BWP Processed Water2008-01-21466/29/2008
This paper addresses the development of a novel technology to simultaneously reduce total organic carbon (TOC) and microbial count (MC) in biological water processor (BWP) processed water. This approach also creates a biocidal environment in BWP processed water before being fed into the reverse osmosis (RO) and post processing systems. The technology is based on an advanced oxidation process using an on-demand oxidizer generator, which does not require consumable chemicals. The SBIR (Small Business Innovation Research) Phase I feasibility studies successfully demonstrated the process efficacy in the reduction of both TOC and MC of the BWP effluent. Also, the residual disinfectant and reduced TOC in the treated effluent minimized fouling the RO membrane and water lines. In the Phase II project, a prototype is being fabricated and evaluated for its ability to reduce TOC and MC, and extend RO membrane life.
Gonzalez-Martin, Anuncia, Ozdemir, Koray, Rhodes, Christopher, Hennings, Brian, Tennakoon, Charles, Hershman, Jerry, McGinnis, James, Kim, Jinseong
The Analysis of a Modified Membrane-Aerated Biofilm Reactor for Space Flight Applications2008-01-20166/29/2008
A modified membrane-aerated biofilm reactor (mMABR) was constructed by incorporating two distinct biofilm immobilization media: gas-permeable hollow fiber membranes and high surface area inert bio-media. In order to evaluate the mMABR for space flight applications, a synthetic ersatz early planetary base (EPB) waste stream was supplied as influent to the reactor, and a liquid loading study was conducted at three influent flow rates. On average, percent carbon removal ranged from 90.7% to 93.1% with volumetric conversion rates ranging from 25 ± 3.3 g / m3 d and 95 ± 13.4 g / m3 d. Simultaneous nitrification/denitrification (SND) was achieved in a single reactor. As the liquid loading rate increased from 0.15 mL/min to 0.45 mL/min, the volumetric denitrification rates elevated from 27 ± 3.3 g / m3 d to 65 ± 5.2 g / m3 d. Additionally, it was found that nitrification and denitrification were linearly related with respect to both percent efficiency and volumetric reaction rates. The mMABR provides an equivalent systems mass (ESM) cost comparative alternative to previously studied two-stage biological systems.
Landes, Nicholas, Jackson, W. Andrew, Morse, Audra
Solid Phase Extraction Mechanistic Studies of the Ag(I)-DMABR Complex: Improving Efficiency of the C-SPE Standard Method of Analysis2008-01-22006/29/2008
Aqueous silver(I) is added at trace levels (0.1 – 1.0 mg/L) to spacecraft potable water as a biocide. Development of a method that can be deployed on orbit and in future Lunar and Mars missions is therefore central to maintenance of safe drinking water and crew health. To address this need, our laboratory has created an analytical technique that couples a selective sorption process based on solid phase extraction (SPE) with the quantitative measurement of the extract by a hand-held diffuse reflection spectrophotometer. This technique, referred to as colorimetric-solid phase extraction (C-SPE), enables the low level detection (limit of detection ∼5 ppb) of silver(I) by metering 1.0 mL of a water sample through a reagent-impregnated (i.e., 5-(p-dimethyl-aminobenzylidene)rhodanine, DMABR) SPE membrane. The total workup time for the analysis is only 60-90 s. Moreover, the effectiveness of this method has been demonstrated by microgravity simulations through comparisons to concurrent ground-based analyses of companion samples. In keeping with the mission of our research, we are constantly refining the efficiency and effectiveness of our methodology. One pressing problem when using C-SPE in a microgravity environment is the presence of dispersed air bubbles that can lead to errors in exact measurement of sampling volumes. Our current protocol requires the withdrawal of more than the specified volume of analyte into a syringe and swinging the syringe in an arc to force the entrapped air to the tip. The air and excess sample are expelled into a waste container before ejecting the analyte through the extraction cartridge. The ideal situation would involve filling a syringe without concern for the exact sample volume, and this can be accomplished by applying the principles of negligible depletion (ND) in conjunction with C-SPE measurements. To determine if current C-SPE protocols could be manipulated to our advantage, a series of experiments were performed to gain a fuller understanding of the role of DMABR in complexing silver(I). Currently used SPE membranes were found to be highly efficient for retaining DMABR, suggesting that reagent loadings may be reduced without compromising extraction performance, posing the potential to adjust the amount of reagent in a membrane to manipulate ND volumes.
Siperko, Lorraine M., Porter, Marc D., Lipert, Robert J.
Lightweight Contingency Water Recovery System Concept Development2008-01-21436/29/2008
The Lightweight Contingency Water Recovery System (LWC-WRS) harvests water from various sources in or around the Orion spacecraft in order to provide contingency water at a substantial mass savings when compared to stored emergency water supplies. The system uses activated carbon treatment (for urine) followed by forward osmosis (FO). The LWC-WRS recovers water from a variety of contaminated sources by directly processing it into a fortified (electrolyte and caloric) drink. Primary target water sources are urine, seawater, and other on board vehicle waters (often referred to as technical waters). The product drink provides hydration, electrolytes, and caloric requirements for crew consumption. The system hardware consists of a urine collection device containing an activated carbon matrix (Stage 1) and an FO membrane treatment element (or bag) which contains an internally mounted cellulose triacetate membrane (Stage 2). All components are light weight disposable plastic, the system is potentially wearable, and it uses no electrical power. When treating urine and other wastewaters containing high levels of organic contaminates this two stage treatment process is required. Seawater and wastewaters containing low levels of organics can be treated for removal of inorganic contaminants (like the salt in seawater) and microorganisms using only the second stage FO membrane element. First year performance testing indicated acceptable flux rates and water recovery percentages over 6 to 12 hours of optimal urine treatment, when using the full system. Some challenges remained in achieving and evaluating acceptable contaminates flux/rejection rates for TOC and nitrogen species in the product; see ICES paper 2007-01-3037 (Gormly and Flynn, 2007). Year 2 work has focused on four basic areas: Characterizing performance of the Stage 2 FO membrane treatment to harvest seawater for use in post landing survival at sea. Researching alternative food product and components for use as the osmotic agent (OA). Pursuing better TOC confirmation in terms of total expected flux/rejection and characterization. In particular, research to confirm (TOC) flux measured in NaCl/ultra-pure water brine product solutions using high chloride compatible analysis methods. Increased nitrogen species control and characterization in the process and product, particularly investigating product side options for urea and/or ammonia nitrogen control. Of these tasks the first is complete, the second and third are in work with substantial data currently available and reported, and the last is in the initial stages of concept development and data collection. Concluding comments and discussion will include a synopsis of seawater, urine and technical water recovery concept development as well as some future options for developing this technology. Initially, the system's urine recycle function is intended for contingency/emergency use only, but will do so at a significant mass savings when compared to contingency water supplies and/or conventional water treatments. LWC-WRS Stage 2 can be exploited to provide emergency utilization of seawater and technical waters. Ultimately, further development of the technology may also provide options for better integration of water recycling into larger habitat component design by including FO membrane elements within the structures.
Gormly, Sherwin, Richardson, Tra-My Justine, Flynn, Michael, Kliss, Mark
Safety & Security Category Winner, "Create the Future" 2007 Design ContestTBMG-27364/1/2008
Biological Degradation of Spent De-Icing Fluids in a Municipal Wastewater Treatment Plant – Experiences and Challenges2007-01-33499/24/2007
Oslo Airport Gardermoen (OSL) is situated over a ground water reservoir, and collection and handling of spent de-icing fluids is therefore of major importance. OSL have chosen to handle low- and medium strength spent fluids in cooperation with a nearby municipal wastewater treatment plant (WWTP). Medium strength fluid is used as a carbon source for nitrogen removal, and thus used as a resource. Low strength fluid is pre-treated in an aerobic biofilm reactor before it is routed to the plant inlet. Prior to the choice of solution for disposal of the fluids, investigations were performed in laboratory and pilot scale. The efficiency of the fluid as a carbon source for denitrification was studied in parallel with ethanol and methanol as well documented carbon sources. The achieved denitrification rates were comparable with those achieved with methanol, while the necessary addition of carbon source was slightly higher for spent de-icing fluid than for methanol. The treatment plant has been operating for almost 9 years, with operational results confirming the spent de-icing fluid to be appropriate as a carbon source. The possible toxicity and low degradability of some of the additives were particular concerns, and was studied for both aerobic and anaerobic biological processes. While the rather toxic fatty alcohol ethoxylate was easily biodegradable when sufficiently diluted, the additives benzotriazole and sodium petroleum sulphonate were hardly or not biodegradable. The latter two additives were therefore substituted. The laboratory scale results were confirmed in full scale prior to this substitution. The pre-treatment of the low strength spent deicing fluid in an aerobic biofilm reactor followed by coagulation and dissolved air flotation was tested in laboratory and pilot scale. The pre-treatment produces water suitable for discharge to the biological stage at the municipal WWTP. This technical solution is implemented, with operational results confirming that this integrated treatment of spent de-icing fluids in a WWTP is a good solution.
Hem, Lars J., Rusten, Bjørn, Skjefstad, Jostein
The ISS Water Processor Catalytic Reactor as a Post Processor for Advanced Water Reclamation Systems2007-01-30387/9/2007
Advanced water processors being developed for NASA's Exploration Initiative rely on phase change technologies and/or biological processes as the primary means of water reclamation. As a result of the phase change, volatile compounds will also be transported into the distillate product stream. The catalytic reactor assembly used in the International Space Station (ISS) water processor assembly, referred to as Volatile Removal Assembly (VRA), has demonstrated high efficiency oxidation of many of these volatile contaminants, such as low molecular weight alcohols and acetic acid, and is considered a viable post treatment system for all advanced water processors. To support this investigation, two ersatz solutions were defined to be used for further evaluation of the VRA. The first solution was developed as part of an internal research and development project at Hamilton Sundstrand (HS), and is based primarily on ISS experience related to the development of the VRA. The second ersatz solution was defined by NASA in support of a study contract to Hamilton Sundstrand to evaluate the VRA as a potential post processor for the Cascade Distillation system being developed by Honeywell. This second ersatz solution contains several low molecular weight alcohols, organic acids, and several inorganic species. A range of residence times, oxygen concentrations and operating temperatures have been studied with both ersatz solutions to provide additional performance capability of the VRA catalyst.
Nalette, Tim, Snowdon, Doug, Pickering, Karen, Callahan, Michael
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