Automated SEBAC-II Prototype Solid Waste Management System for Long Term Space Mission Agricultural and Biological Engineering Department, University of Florida

Format:

Conference/Event

Author/Creator:

Luniya, Suneet S., author.

Conference Name:

International Conference On Environmental Systems (2005-07-11 : Rome, Italy)

Language:

English

Physical Description:

1 online resource

Place of Publication:

Warrendale, PA SAE International 2005

Summary:

This paper reports on design improvements made to a full-scale prototype solid waste management system designed to support a 6-person crew on long-term space missions. The original system design is based on Sequential Batch Anaerobic Composting (SEBAC), a patented process for odorless bioconversion of organic solid wastes to methane and compost by anaerobic digestion. The system consists of five reactors and two gas-liquid separators designed for operation under closed conditions in micro-gravity. During any week of operation, one reactor is being used for feed collection and compaction, three for stage-wise anaerobic composting, and one for post-treatment by aerobic stabilization while simultaneously serving as a bio-filter in the pretreatment of cabin air within the air revitalization subsystem. Previous work resulted in preliminary operating performance data that revealed the need for further design improvements [1]. This paper will present the results from design improvements including a control system for flow reversal of leachate through the system to accomplish higher efficiency and minimize channeling of leachate through feedstock beds during pressurized pumping operations

Notes:

Vendor supplied data

Publisher Number:

2005-01-3025

Access Restriction:

Restricted for use by site license