NASA Logo

NTRS

NTRS - NASA Technical Reports Server

Back to Results
A porous stainless steel membrane system for extraterrestrial crop productionA system was developed in which nutrient flow to plant roots is controlled by a thin (0.98 or 1.18 mm) porous (0.2 or 0.5 microns) stainless steel sheet membrane. The flow of nutrient solution through the membrane is controlled by adjusting the relative negative pressure on the nutrient solution side of the membrane. Thus, the nutrient solution is contained by the membrane and cannot escape from the compartment even under microgravity conditions if the appropriate pressure gradient across the membrane is maintained. Plant roots grow directly on the top surface of the membrane and pull the nutrient solution through this membrane interface. The volume of nutrient solution required by this system for plant growth is relatively small, since the plenum, which contains the nutrient solution in contact with the membrane, needs only to be of sufficient size to provide for uniform flow to all parts of the membrane. Solution not passing through the membrane to the root zone is recirculated through a reservoir where pH and nutrient levels are controlled. The size of the solution reservoir depends on the sophistication of the replenishment system. The roots on the surface of the membrane are covered with a polyethylene film (white on top, black on bottom) to maintain a high relative humidity and also limit light to prevent algal growth. Seeds are sown directly on the stainless steel membrane under the holes in the polyethylene film that allow a pathway for the shoots.
Document ID
20040090390
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Koontz, H. V.
(University of Connecticut Storrs 06268)
Prince, R. P.
Berry, W. L.
Knott, W. M.
Date Acquired
August 21, 2013
Publication Date
June 1, 1990
Publication Information
Publication: HortScience : a publication of the American Society for Horticultural Science
Volume: 25
Issue: 6
ISSN: 0018-5345
Subject Category
Man/System Technology And Life Support
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other
Keywords
NASA Discipline Number 61-20
NASA Center KSC
NASA Discipline Life Support Systems
NASA Program CELSS

Available Downloads

There are no available downloads for this record.
No Preview Available