Dust aboard the ISS contained numerous hazardous chemicals. (Credit: Pixabay).
The constant recirculation of air within the ISS, combined with its zero-G environment, produces an unique setting for the deposition of particles on surface areas and air intakes. Screens covering the ISSs High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters catch these particles, demanding regular vacuuming to keep purification efficiency.
Samples included a selection of harmful chemical compounds, including hexabromocyclododecane (HBCDD), novel brominated flame retardants (BFRs), organophosphate esters (OPEs), polycyclic fragrant hydrocarbons (PAH), perfluoroalkyl compounds (PFAS), and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). A few of these substances are infamously dangerous to human health and the environment.
Some of the vacuum bags including this “space dust” were brought back to Earth for further analysis, yielding vital insights into the chemical structure of the ISS environment and how scientists can utilize it in future spacecraft styles.
The study also raised concerns about the origins of these chemical compounds in the environment of the International Space Station. Researchers presume that commercially readily available items, such as electronic devices, clothing, and medical devices, brought aboard for astronauts individual usage, may be contributing sources of these contaminants.
The researchers likewise stressed the unpredictabilities surrounding the elimination of such chemicals from the ISSs recirculated air, provided the troubles positioned by microgravity and ionizing radiation-induced material deterioration.
The research study, published in Environmental Science and Technology Letters, is the very first to evaluate dust structure from the ISS air purification systems. The findings have actually raised alarms over the possible effect of these substances on the health and wellness of astronauts and have significant implications for the design and construction of future spacecraft.
Stuart Harrad from the University of Birmingham, co-author of the research study, emphasized that the findings highlight the importance of carefully selecting products in the early stages of spacecraft design to reduce potential contamination sources.
To enhance fire safety, these substances are commonly utilized in electrical devices, constructing insulation, and furnishings materials. The health risks associated with their presence have actually led to bans or restrictions on their use, despite their designated function.
” Our findings have implications for future area stations and habitats, where it may be possible to omit numerous contaminant sources by careful material options in the early stages of style and construction.”.
A new research study has shed light on the existence of worrying chemical substances in dust collected from the International Space Stations (ISS) air purification systems. The research study, led by researchers from the University of Birmingham in partnership with the NASA Glenn Research Center, has revealed concentrations of organic pollutants in the ISS air filters that surpass those typically found in flooring dust from homes across the United States and Western Europe.
Amongst the compounds identified were polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and other flame retardants frequently used in consumer and business products. To improve fire safety, these compounds are typically used in electrical devices, developing insulation, and furniture materials. The health dangers associated with their presence have led to restrictions or constraints on their usage, despite their designated function.