Atmosphere revitalization for manned spacecraft - An assessment of technology readiness

The level of proficiency attained by the most effective physical and chemical regenerative processes capable of providing a habitable atmospheric environment in a spacecraft is assessed. It is shown that both the Sabatier and Bosh reactions are in a mature stage of technological readiness and can effectively reduce the carbon dioxide in a spacecraft. An electrochemical method for concentrating CO2 from an air environment offers promise to approach low levels of pCO2 control. Technological advances in the fields of solid polymer electrolytes and oxygen evolution electrocatalysts have led to a water electrolysis system that can maintain efficient performance for several years. Nitrogen supply and control of the composition of the spacecraft atmosphere is effectively provided by the circulating electrolyte technique.