Photocatalytic and adsorptive system for odor control in lunar surface systems using Silica-Titania Composites

The development of efficient odor removal systems for use inside lunar mission architectures is one of NASA's critical needs. Although photocatalytic systems have been demonstrated at the laboratory scale for the removal of a variety of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), commercial systems have various limitations including poor mass transfer, fragile components, and incomplete oxidation. A novel, robust, and highly effective Silica-Titania Composite (STC) technology has been developed that is capable of adsorbing and oxidizing VOCs through photocatalytic processes. The STC technology overcomes many of the deficiencies found in other photocatalytic technologies, offering a robust, high surface area material that can oxidize VOCs without the emission of hazardous byproducts. Sol Gel Solutions has fabricated a prototype to house the STC pellets, and has evaluated the unit for the removal of ethanol from an air stream. Optimization of the technology has been conducted, including a comparison between the use of UV lamps (365nm and 254nm) and UV LEDs (365 nm) in various arrangements.