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Space Station Nitrogen Supply System Based on Stored Chemicals
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Abstract
The Space Station will require a method of supplying nitrogen (N2) for Space Station leakage makeup and repressurization. Life Systems working with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has developed a Nitrogen Supply System (NSS) based on the catalytic dissociation of hydrazine (N2 H4) into a mixture of hydrogen (H2) and nitrogen (N2) and their subsequent separation. A preprototype NSS has undergone developmental testing and is capable of producing an average of 4.4 kg/day (9.6 lb/day) of N2. The design integrates a hydrazine catalytic dissociator, three ammonia (NH3) dissociation stages and four H2 separation stages into a 28 kg (62 lb), 21 dm3 (0.76 ft3) module. The Nitrogen supply by hydrazine dissociation has a lower launch weight than other nitrogen supply techniques. It also has the advantages that the hydrazine will be readily available at the Space Station since it is required for satellite refueling as well as the probable fuel source for the Space Station, and the product hydrogen will be available for other Space Station consumers (e.g., attitude control, laboratory needs and carbon dioxide reduction). This paper reviews the design, configuration, operation and performance characteristics of the preprototype NSS.
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Authors
Citation
Powell, F. and Schwartz, M., "Space Station Nitrogen Supply System Based on Stored Chemicals," SAE Technical Paper 851349, 1985, https://doi.org/10.4271/851349.Also In
References
- NASA Johnson Space Center “Space Station Definition and Preliminary Design RFP,” Houston, TX September 1984
- Marshall, R.D. et al. “Spacecraft Nitrogen Generation,” Final Report, Contract NAS2-7057, NASA CR-137567, ER-198-5; Life Systems, Inc. Cleveland, OH December 1974
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- Andretti, L.F. Ogg, B. The Chemistry of Hydrazine J. Wiley and Sons, Inc. New York, NY 1951
- Heppner, D.B. Fort J. H. Schubert, F.H. “Preprototype Nitrogen Supply Subsystem Development,” Final Report, Contract NAS2-10673, TR-410-5 Life Systems, Inc. Cleveland, OH June 1982