ISS astronauts to test trash compactor that’s basically WALL-E
Sierra Space’s machine can also recycle water from the garbage.
NASA will test a state-of-the-art trash compactor aboard the International Space Station—and yes, it resembles a certain Pixar character tasked with the same job responsibilities. If all goes well, Sierra Space’s Trash Compaction and Processing System (TCPS) will be operational for ISS astronauts to use by the end of 2026.
Overview of the TCPS System
The TCPS system is a waste management system designed for use in space, with the goal of efficiently converting solid waste into a usable form. The system consists of a compact, off-white receptacle cube with multiple blue hose nozzles, which serves as the input point for waste. The system then uses a combination of heating, sterilization, and compression to convert the waste into a usable form.
Catalytic Oxidizer (CatOx) Component
The CatOx component is a critical component of the TCPS system. It is a catalyst that helps to break down the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other byproducts generated by waste. The CatOx is designed to be more energy efficient and safer than other VOC removal methods, such as thermal incineration.
The CatOx works by reacting with the VOCs and other byproducts to break them down into simpler compounds. This process is facilitated by a controlled atmosphere, where the temperature and pressure are adjusted to optimize the reaction. The resulting reaction produces a gas that can be collected and processed.
Heating and Sterilization Process
The TCPS system uses a combination of heating and sterilization to convert the waste into a usable form. The waste is first heated to a high temperature, typically around 1000°C, to kill any bacteria or other microorganisms. This process is followed by a period of sterilization, where the waste is exposed to a controlled atmosphere that is free from oxygen.
The heating and sterilization process has several benefits. It reduces the volume of waste, making it easier to store and transport. It also reduces the weight of the waste, which is critical in space where resources are limited. Finally, it produces a sterile product that can be used for a variety of purposes, including radiation shielding.
Compression and Tile Formation
After the heating and sterilization process, the waste is compressed into small, flat tiles. These tiles are made up of the converted waste, which has been transformed into a usable form. The tiles are typically around 1-2 cm in size and can be stacked and stored easily.
The compression process uses a combination of heat and pressure to compact the waste into the desired shape. The resulting tiles are strong, lightweight, and can be used for a variety of purposes, including radiation shielding.
Water Recovery and Gas Processing
One of the key benefits of the TCPS system is its ability to recover water from the waste stream. The system uses a combination of filtration and condensation to recover up to 98% of the water from the waste. This water can then be reused for a variety of purposes, including life support systems and propulsion.
The system also processes the gas produced during the heating and sterilization process. The gas is collected and processed to remove any contaminants or byproducts. This process produces a clean gas that can be reused for a variety of purposes, including life support systems and propulsion.
TCPS Ground Unity and Flight Unit
Sierra Space has completed its system design and review, which was presented to NASA for additional analysis. The company is currently finalizing a TCPS Ground Unity for further testing in the coming months, followed by the construction of a Flight Unit destined for the ISS.
The TCPS Ground Unity will undergo a series of tests to validate the system's performance and functionality. These tests will include simulations, experiments, and performance assessments to ensure that the system meets the required specifications.
The Flight Unit will then be constructed and transported to the ISS, where it will undergo a series of tests and evaluations. The system will be integrated with the existing waste management infrastructure on the ISS and will undergo a series of performance tests to validate its functionality.
Potential Applications
The TCPS system has a wide range of potential applications beyond space exploration. It could be used in a variety of industries, including:
These are just a few examples of the potential applications of the TCPS system. As the technology continues to develop, it is likely that we will see a wide range of new and innovative applications for this revolutionary waste management system.
Article