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Biofilm formation and control in a simulated spacecraft water system - Three year resultsTwo simulated spacecraft water systems are being used to evaluate the effectiveness of iodine for controlling microbial contamination within such systems. An iodine concentration of about 2.0 mg/L is maintained in one system by passing ultrapure water through an iodinated ion exchange resin. Stainless steel coupons with electropolished and mechanically-polished sides are being used to monitor biofilm formation. Results after three years of operation show a single episode of significant bacterial growth in the iodinated system when the iodine level dropped to 1.9 mg/L. This growth was apparently controlled by replacing the iodinated ion exchange resin, thereby increasing the iodine level. The second batch of resin has remained effective in controlling microbial growth down to an iodine level of 1.0 mg/L. SEM indicates that the iodine has impeded but may have not completely eliminated the formation of biofilm. Metals analyses reveal some corrosion in the iodinated system after 3 years of continuous exposure. Significant microbial contamination has been present continuously in a parallel noniodinated system since the third week of operation.
Document ID
19930057475
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Schultz, John R.
(NASA Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center Houston, TX, United States)
Flanagan, David T.
(NASA Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center Houston, TX, United States)
Bruce, Rebekah J.
(NASA Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center Houston, TX, United States)
Mudgett, Paul D.
(NASA Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center Houston, TX, United States)
Carr, Sandra E.
(NASA Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center Houston, TX, United States)
Rutz, Jeffrey A.
(NASA Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center Houston, TX, United States)
Huls, M. H.
(Krug Life Sciences, Inc. Houston, TX, United States)
Sauer, Richard L.
(NASA Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center Houston, TX, United States)
Pierson, Duane L.
(NASA Johnson Space Center Houston, TX, United States)
Date Acquired
August 16, 2013
Publication Date
July 1, 1992
Subject Category
Man/System Technology And Life Support
Report/Patent Number
SAE PAPER 921310
Meeting Information
Meeting: SAE, International Conference on Environmental Systems
Location: Seattle, WA
Country: United States
Start Date: July 13, 1992
End Date: July 16, 1992
Sponsors: SAE
Accession Number
93A41472
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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