Application of Radioisotopes to Water Recovery System for Extended Manned Aerospace Missions
Abstract
Research conducted to obtain a process and system design for the recovery of potable drinking water from human waste during extensive space flights revealed that the most promising process required considerable thermal energy for satisfactory operation. The large consumption of electrical energy prohibits system acceptability when the energy drain is on the vehicle electrical supply system. To meet the need for thermal energy, radioisotopes were investigated and found to conform with the known requirements. The review of previous research on water recovery systems, the design and development of the Air Force modified system, and detailed data on two (36 and 39 day) tests with the isotopes in place supplying the total thermal energy is presented in the report. The complex system is considered a technological breakthrough and for the first time, a radioisotope fueled system is programmed for a 90-day manned chamber test, recovering drinking water from human waste for consumption by four crewmen during the experiment.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 1970
- Accession Number
- AD0718965
Entities
People
- Courtney A. Metzger
Organizations
- Air Force Research Laboratory