MMicrowave Regenerable Air Purification Device (MRAPD)  
NASA SBIR/STTR SUCCESS STORIES Ames Research Center 
1997 Phase II

Microwave Regenerable Air Purification Device(MRAPD)

UMPQUA Research Company

Myrtle Creek, OR
 

INNOVATION
    MRAPD technology utilizes microwave power to rapidly and efficiently regenerate important sorbents used to purify air. Microwaves transfer energy directly to the sorbent, resulting in efficient thermal regeneration. .
Prototype MRAPD
Prototype MRAPD

Optional Powerpoint file
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
  • Efficient microwave induced thermal desorption of media beds containing airborne carbon dioxide, water vapor, and trace organic contaminants, with minimal input power levels has been demonstrated.
  • Regeneration of activated carbon and molecular sieves 5A and 13X has been demonstrated.
  • Sorbent media is contained in novel “Waveguide Sorbent Cartridges” allowing for a high level of portability and flexibility in the regeneration of sorbents.
  • MRAPD provides improved speed and efficiency over conventional conductive or convective heat regeneration techniques.
COMMERCIALIZATION
  • A prototype MRAPD is available at URC for use as a Technology Demonstrator for commercial applications and to facilitate further development.
  • Efforts are underway to solicit interest in the environmental remediation industry. A startup company has been formed that will pursue commercialization of this and other URC technologies.
GOVERNMENT/SCIENCE APPLICATIONS
  • The MRAPD technology is directed toward the need to minimize expendables for extended manned missions in space. The primary application of this technology will be for the International Space Station and future Moon base and Mars missions.
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