Project Title:
Unique Metal Monolith Catalytic Converter for Small Efficient Trace Contaminant Control System
Precision Combustion, Inc.
25 Science Park
New Haven, CT 06511
93-1 12.06 5215 _ AMOUNT REQUESTED $62,207
Unique Metal Monolith Catalytic Converter for Small Efficient Trace Contaminant Control System
Abstract:
Precision Combustion is developing a novel catalytic metal monolith
technology providing high conversion efficiency using unique
("Microlith˘") catalyst structures. An Army SBIR Phase I (completed
3/92) has demonstrated ultra-high destruction levels using a
microlith˘ reactor bed for control of chemical and biological
agents for helicopters. A completed EPA SBIR Phase I/II project
explored use of a resistively-heated microlith˘ catalytic converter
requiring low amounts of electrical heating to rapidly achieve very
high catalytic conversion of automotive exhaust gases.
We propose adapting this new technology to provide a lighter and
more durable oxidation catalyst based trace contaminant removal
system meeting NASA's need for an alternative to expendable
adsorption and chemical sorption for air revitalization in
spacecraft. In Phase I, we will build a prototype catalyst unit and
evaluate performance in achieving poison-resistant high destruction
effectiveness with minimized weight and size. Process trade-offs
will be studied to provide a preliminary systems (design for Phase
II.
The device would be ideal for commercial aircraft cabin air
purification caused by environmental control unit (ECU) ingestion
of auxiliary power unit (APU)/engine exhaust. Benefits compared to
adsorption approaches include more reliable operation and reduced
expendables. Benefits over other catalytic converter approaches
include much smaller size and weight, due to efficient geometry,
superior long term life (including improved resistance to
poisoning) and improved destruction capability and control (due to
resistive heating).
Catalytic oxidation, air revitalization, life support, trace
contaminants, cabin air