Development of an Amine-based System for Combined Carbon Dioxide, Humidity, and Trace Contaminant Control

A number of amine-based carbon dioxide (C02) removal systems have been developed for atmosphere revitalization in closed loop life support systems. Most recently, Hamilton Sundstrand developed an amine-based sorbent, designated SA9T, possessing approximately 2-fold greater capacity compared to previous formulations. This new formulation has demonstrated applicability for controlling C02 levels within vehicles and habitats as well as during extravehicular activity (EVA). System volume is competitive with existing technologies. Further enhancements in system performance can be realized by incorporating humidity and trace contaminant control functions within an amine-based atmosphere revitalization system. A 3-year effort to develop prototype hardware capable of removing C02, H20, and trace contaminants from a cabin atmosphere has been initiated. Progress pertaining to defining system requirements and identifying alternative amine formulations and substrates is presented.