ANALYSIS OF HUMAN FECAL COMPONENTS AND STUDY OF METHODS FOR THEIR RECOVERY IN SPACE SYSTEMS
Abstract
Human fecal constituents were investigated for possible use in waste recovery systems aboard a space vehicle during a journey of long duration (1-3 months). It was necessary to first isolate them and then to evaluate their potential usefulness. A review of literature indicated that there is incomplete knowledge of human fecal components, that detailed knowledge of the chemical nature of only a small proportion of fecal components exists, and that these have rarely been isolated in any quantity. However, protein, minerals and trace elements present in feces are possibly useful materials. Investigation indicated that use of fecal protein or its component amino acids as nutrients for man would require supplementation of the diet. A number of minerals were isolated. If found to have nutritional value, feces could possibly serve as an available source of supply. Insufficient information (e.g., authentic space diets and identification of useful fecal components) exists to compare or recommend feasible methods for recovery. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 1961
- Accession Number
- AD0266882
Entities
People
- Emily L. Wick
- Samuel A. Goldblith
Organizations
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology