Vacuum Distillation, Vapor Pyrolysis Water Recovery System Utilizing Radioisotopes for Thermal Energy
Abstract
A laboratory prototype system for producing, storing and dispensing potable water derived from urine and wash water was designed, fabricated, and tested. The design incorporated the previously established technique of vacuum distillation of liquid wastes followed by pyrolysis of the steam in the presence of a catalyst. For the first time, radioisotope heat sources (containing Plutonium 238) were employed in both the evaporator and pyrolysis sections to minimize the electrical power requirements for a potential space application. The system was also designed to utilize electrical and waste heat sources and is capable of zero gravity operation. The basic process demonstrated its feasibility for long duration operation producing high quality potable water. Peripheral equipment, such as, liquid level sensors, and phase separators need further development. Unit weight was 120 pounds and power consumption was 56 watt-hours per pound of water recovered. A flight optimized design using isotopes would weigh 58 pounds and consume 8 watt hours per pound of water recovered.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 1967
- Accession Number
- AD0667571
Entities
People
- H. Esten
- L. Cooper
- Ryan Murray
Organizations
- General Electric