Grey water recycling unit: critical items developments, phase 1: Accommodation study
This activity was approved by the Aurora Board of Participants within the Work Plan 2005-2006 and should be initiated by the end of 2005.
The Antarctic environment is protected by International Treaties and all waste materials must be removed from the Continent, making wastewater treatment a major issue. ESA, in association with the MELiSSA experts, is developing the necessary grey water (for example shower water) and black water (for example toilet water) treatment units to the Concordia Station.
Since early 1990’s ESA has focussed its attention on grey water treatment activity for human spaceflight. A three step continuous filtration system has been built, tested and validated at breadboard level.
Unfortunately, mainly due to the absence of manned space projects, the development of this unit at breadboard level and the space adaptation of the developed technology have never been seriously considered (for example pumps, pressure and materials). Although, mainly due to terrestrial applications, the developed unit has been regularly improved and remains up to date. An upgrade version for 40 to 70 persons has been built and will be evaluated during isolation campaign on Concordia site in Antarctica.
Such systems could be cost-effective for exploration and will certainly be used in one form or another within the advanced life support needed for planetary and lunar bases. There is also considerable spin-off potential for terrestrial applications (developing countries, hotels, domestic water recycling)
The use of membrane for grey water treatment presents major interests for transit phase and/or surface base. However, the flow and pressure management may be an important limiting factor. Although mass can probably be obtained via a microbial complementary unit, today it is important to perform an accommodation study, identify advantages and weaknesses and propose a strategy for future development.
For more information see: Water recycling and quality control
Start |
Expected or actual duration | Status | Prime contractor |
---|---|---|---|
Feb. '06 | 12 months | To be kicked-off | As yet unknown |