North Haven, CT (May 13, 2021) – Precision Combustion, Inc. (PCI) received an award from the NASA Phase II Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program for its compact, vacuum-regenerable sorbent bed for effectively removing a broad range of trace contaminants, which can be integrated with the Exploration Portable Life Support System (xPLSS) CO2/H2O removal system.
Both the primary trace contaminants as well as other species that threaten to exceed the 7-day Spacecraft Maximum Allowable Concentration (SMAC) levels during an Extravehicular Activity (EVA) mission were addressed via sub-scale testing in Phase I. The approach is based on PCI’s proven sorbent nanomaterials that have high surface area coated on a structured support, enabling a compact and low pressure drop device. This offered the potential for real-time, in-suit sorbent regeneration, reduced logistical burden associated with bed replacement or thermal regeneration, and further volume and weight reduction of the TCC packaging. In Phase II, TCC hardware prototypes will be developed, demonstrated, and delivered to a NASA laboratory for further evaluation, performance validation, and possible integration with the xPLSS hardware design.
Dr. Christian Junaedi, the project’s Principal Investigator, noted, “This is a great opportunity to further develop our sorbent nanomaterials for removing trace contaminants. In this case, the materials will be functionalized to target ammonia and formaldehyde. If Phase II is successful, the technology will be extremely valuable to NASA and the space industry, as it would significantly reduce the current spacesuit life support system limitation and increase mission availability.”
President Kevin Burns remarked, “If astronauts are to perform EVA missions in space and on other planets, they will need spacesuit life support systems for longer missions. Our regenerable trace contaminant control technology can provide this support. As always, our NASA life support projects will also help improve life on Earth – the lightweight, low-pressure drop, and energy efficient features of our designed sorbent offer multiple opportunities for more efficient and effective air cleaning for buildings and residences, as well as for industrial gas applications.”
Precision Combustion, Inc. is a clean energy and environmental technology company developing new reactors and systems for energy and environmental sector applications.
For more information, contact:
Anthony Anderson
Director, Marketing and Business Development
Email: aanderson@precision-combustion.com
