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Space habitat contaminant growth models
G W Morgenthaler1, D Kompala, G J Smith
1Center for Space Environmental Health, University of Colorado, Boulder 80309-0429.
Acta Astronautica
|January 1, 1992
Summary
Contaminant Growth Models (CGM) are essential for designing safe space habitats. A layered approach, integrating toxicological research, is proposed to manage complex contamination challenges in space environments.
Area of Science:
- Space environmental health
- Aerospace engineering
- Toxicology
Background:
- Designing space habitats requires managing complex contaminant risks.
- Current data is insufficient for comprehensive contamination control.
- A structured approach to Contaminant Growth Models (CGM) is needed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline the necessity and function of CGMs in space habitat design and operations.
- To propose a layered strategy for CGM development and application.
- To demonstrate CGM utility using thermodegradation and hydrazine examples.
Main Methods:
- Literature review on space habitat contamination.
- Conceptual development of a layered CGM approach.
- Case studies using thermodegradation and hydrazine contaminants.
Main Results:
- CGMs are crucial for analyzing space habitat environments.
- A layered CGM approach aids in risk assessment and standard setting.
- NASA's Center for Space Environmental Health (CSEH) will integrate research and design tools.
Conclusions:
- The proposed CGM approach supports habitat design, prediction, monitoring, and control.
- Further research and development are needed as the CSEH project is in its early stages.
- This framework aims to enhance safety in space missions through environmental health management.