A new waste treatment system based upon photo- assimilation of organic compounds by phototrophic bacteria will be developed. A critical problem for long-term space habitation is the need to continuously detoxify and decompose organic waste materials and allow their recycling in a closed system. Phototrophic bacteria utilize unique biochemical pathways for organic oxidation that offer significant advantages over conventional aerobic or anaerobic systems. These include minimal gas generation or utilization, resistance to shock loading and chemical toxicity, and reduced energy requirements. As part of the project, various strains of phototrophic bacteria, optimal for waste decomposition, will be selected. Prototype light-driven waste treatment systems will be constructed and inoculated with these strains. The optimal prototype will be operated for an extended continuous period (60 days). Performance standards to be met will be 95 percent or greater for removal of waste components. The ability of the system to remove toxic compounds such as naphthalene will also be evaluated. Biomass generated by the phototrophs will be evaluated for its ability to support plant growth and be recycled in the biosphere.Similar systems could be used for small- and large-scale sewage treatment with greatly improved efficiency and lower operating costs. These could include isolated communities and farms as well as Third World communities. Such systems could also be used to detoxify waste streams from large-scale chemical and food processing plants.bioaugmentation, phototrophic bacteria, waste treatmentSTATUS: Phase I Only
