Analysis of an algae-based CELSS. Part 1: model development

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Chemical Engineering
• Space Systems Engineering

Background:

• Developing sustainable life support systems is crucial for long-duration space missions.
• Accurate modeling is essential for optimizing resource utilization and minimizing waste in closed environments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a steady state chemical model and computer program for life support systems.
• To apply the model to trade-off studies for system sizing and subsystem optimization.

Main Methods:

• A steady state chemical model was developed based on crew metabolic needs for food and oxygen.
• Modules for water recycle, waste treatment, CO2 removal, and food production were integrated.
• A simple non-iterative solution using steady state rate equations was employed.

Main Results:

• The computer program calculates material balances for food, oxygen, water, nitrogen, and waste recycling.
• The model was successfully applied to system sizing and subsystem trade-off analyses.
• It provides a framework for evaluating different configurations of partially closed life support systems.

Conclusions:

• The developed steady state chemical model and program are effective tools for life support system analysis.
• This approach facilitates informed decision-making in the design and optimization of environmental control systems.
• The model supports trade-off studies crucial for the development of sustainable space habitats.