Project Title:

Solid-Polymer, Electrolyte-Based Electrolyzers for Water Reclamation Post-Treatment

12.03-4131
NAS9-18317
Solid-Polymer, Electrolyte-Based Electrolyzers
	for Water Reclamation Post-Treatment
Lynntech, Inc.
	111 E. 27th Street, #204
	Bryan, TX 77803
		Ramesh C. Kainthla
(409-846-4131)

Abstract:

	On long-duration space missions, water reclaimed from urine, humidity condensate,
and hygiene water will be contaminated with organic chemicals and microorganisms.
One means of completely eliminating microorganisms and total organic carbon is to
treat contaminated water with ozone and hydrogen peroxide together. Both these oxidants
react rapidly in water, and simple procedures can ensure that these reagents are
broken down to water and oxygen. A solid-polymer-electrolyte (SPE) electrolyzer unit
will be constructed that generates O3 and H2O2 directly in the water stream. No expendable
materials other than small quantities of air will be required. A solid polymer electrolyte
avoids the difficulty of separating the oxidants produced from the electrolyte. Electrochemical
technology for the anodic generation of O3 and for the cathodic generation of H2O2
is well established. The aim of this work is to construct a novel SPE electrolyzer
that combines both of these reactions.

Potential Commercial Application:

Potential Commercial Applications: Markets for devices providing ultra-pure, sterile
water exist in the electronics and pharmaceutical industries and for providing high-purity
sterile water for hospitals at reduced costs.