GASEOUS EXCHANGE IN A CLOSED ECOLOGICAL SYSTEM

Abstract

A series of experiments was performed to deter mine the feasibility of using several types of organisms to maintain a gaseous balance in a closed system. The system consisted of: (a) a photosynthetic unit comprised of cells of Chlorella pyrenoidosa strain TX 71105, (b) a biological aerobic sewage- digesting unit, (c) a unit containing an ammonia-utilizing fungus, Linderina pennispora, and (d) an animal chamber containing a white adult male rat. Although many difficulties were encountered, this bioregenerating unit could be operated under closed conditions for 390 hours. Gas analyses indicated CO2 and O2 levels can be maintained at desirable levels. Material balance within the system was not attempted. However, nitrogen analysis of the resultant fungal mass showed that data on the basic physiology of the organism is required before such a balance can seriously be attempted. The relationship between mission requirements and the level of biological complexity of a closed ecological system was discussed.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Dec 01, 1962
Accession Number
AD0402759

Entities

People

  • Arselus West
  • Sheldon A. London

Organizations

  • Air Force Research Laboratory

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Biomedical

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Algae
  • Animals
  • Biology
  • Biomedical Research
  • Cells
  • Closed Ecological Systems
  • Efficiency
  • Environment
  • Flow Rate
  • Fungi
  • Government Procurement
  • Governments
  • Materials
  • Protoplasm
  • Space Systems
  • Spacecraft
  • Universities

Readers

  • Aquatic Ecology
  • Naval Mine Countermeasure Systems Development.
  • Thermal Physics or Thermal Science.