Integrated Testing of a 4-Bed Molecular Sieve and a Temperature-Swing Adsorption Compressor for Closed-Loop Air Revitalization

Accumulation and subsequent compression of carbon dioxide that is removed from the space cabin are two important processes involved in a closed-loop air revitalization scheme of the International Space Station (ISS). The 4-Bed Molecular Sieve (4BMS) of ISS currently operates in an open loop mode without a compressor. This paper reports the integrated 4BMS and liquid-cooled Temperature Swing Adsorption Compressor (TSAC) testing conducted during the period of March 3 to April 18, 2003. The TSAC prototype was developed at NASA Ames Research Center (ARC)¹. The 4BMS was modified to a functionally flight-like condition at NASA Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC)². Testing was conducted at MSFC. The paper provides details of the TSAC operation at various CO₂ loadings and corresponding performance of the 4BMS.