/sci/ - Science & Math

The other expensive hurdle in life support is CO2 absorbant; Currently it's single-use, disposable powder called sodasorb. Soda lime powder captures and neutralized CO2 chemically, but once it's "full" the (mercifully nontoxic) powder is disposed of, usually directly into the ocean. A single bucket of the stuff isn't too expensive, maybe $20-$50, but the cost adds up quickly as you need a huge amount of it to stay down for any long period, and it multiplies with each crew member you add.

Fortunately, reusable absorbant has now been invented:

http://www.gizmag.com/edible-nontoxic-carbon-filter/19955/

It's made from sugar, water, salt and alcohol. It changes color to visibly indicate when it's full up on CO2, and the absorption process can be reversed an indefinite number of times without apparent degradation of the substance. This means, with two distinct filters, you could purge one (sending the outgassed CO2 directly into the water) while using the other. Continuous CO2 absorption, without the overhead expense of having to repeatedly buy more.

Pic related; The shitload of absorbant used aboard Aquarius currently. Now, there's a better way.

Just to explain why reusable sodasorb is a big deal, look at this picture. Look how many buckets of sodasorb are in it. You're looking at a 10-14 day supply, much of which is off camera.