Carbon Dioxide Methanation for Human Exploration of Mars: A Look at Catalyst Longevity and Activity Using Supported RutheniumOverarching Purpose: To design a carbon dioxide methanation/Sabatier reaction catalyst able to withstand variable conditions including fluctuations in bed temperature and feed flow rates for 480 days of remote operation to produce seven tons of methane. Current Study Purpose: Examine supported Ruthenium as a carbon dioxide methanation catalyst to determine the effects support properties have on the active phase by studying activity and selectivity. Objective: The remote operation of the Mars ISRU (In Situ Resources Utilization) lander to produce rocket fuel prior to crew arrival on the planet to power an ascent vehicle. Constraints: Long-term operation (480 days); Variable conditions: Feed gas flow rates, Feed gas flow ratios, Reactor bed temperature.
Document ID
20180002995
Acquisition Source
Kennedy Space Center
Document Type
Presentation
Authors
Petersen, Elspeth M. (Iowa State Univ. Ames, IA, United States)
Meier, Anne J. (NASA Kennedy Space Center Cocoa Beach, FL, United States)
Tessonnier, Jean-Philippe (Iowa State Univ. Ames, IA, United States)
Date Acquired
May 21, 2018
Publication Date
April 18, 2018
Subject Category
Space ProcessingPropellants And FuelsLunar And Planetary Science And Exploration