APPLICATION OF LITHIUM CHEMICALS FOR AIR REGENERATION OF MANNED SPACECRAFT
Abstract
Lithium oxide of highly active surface area (10 sq m/g or better) has been prepared. This material can absorb up to 1.25 times its weight of carbon dioxide, thus making the most efficient CO2 absorber on the basis of its weight. For efficient operation, the molar ratio of water vapor over carbon dioxide in the gaseous atmosphere should be at least unity. At 5 psia of oxygen and 50% relative humidity, the temperature of the gas should be at least 50F (10C) to approach this molar ratio value. A 'passivedynamic' atmosphere regeneration unit was designed with a small motor blower that circulates the gaseous environment through a cone shaped granular bed of lithium oxide (4-14 mesh). The unit weighs 4-1/2 pounds and has been shown to absorb the daily carbon dioxide output, or more, of one man. The outflowing gas is free of irritating dust due to efficient filters and the gas temperatures are at comfortable levels. The effects of weightlessness, vibration and acceleration on the functioning of the unit, have been considered in its design. An adequate amount of safety of operation also was imparted to the unit. The unit can easily be recharged with fresh lithium oxide granules.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1965
- Accession Number
- AD0619497
Entities
People
- J. W. Robinson Jr
- R. O. Bach
- W. W. Boardman Jr.