Analysis Of Human Fecal Components And Study Of Methods For Their Recovery In Space Systems
Report Number: ASD TR 61-419
Author(s): Goldblith, Samuel A., Wick, Emily L.
Corporate Author(s): Massachusetts Inst Of Tech Cambridge
Laboratory: Life Support Systems Laboratory
Date of Publication: 1961-08
Pages: 66
Contract: AF 33(616)-6136
DoD Project: 6373
DoD Task: 63122
Identifier: AD0266882
Abstract:
Human fecal constituents were investigated for possible use in waste recovery systems aboard a space vehicle during a journey of long duration (1-3 months). In an attempt to investigate possible methods for recovering these constituents, it was necessary to first isolate them and then to evaluate their potential usefulness for waste recovery systems.A review of literature indicated that there is very incomplete knowledge of human fecal components, that detailed knowledge of the chemical nature of only a small proportion of fecal components exists, and that these have rarely been isolated in any quantity. However, protein, minerals and trace elements present in feces are possibly useful materials.Investigation indicated that use of fecal protein or its component amino acids as nutrients for man would require supplementation of the diet. A number of minerals were isolated from feces. If found to have nutritional value, feces could possibly serve as an available source of supply.Insufficient information (e.g., authentic space diets and identification of useful fecal components) exists to compare or recommend feasible methods for recovery of usable materials from feces in space vehicles.
Provenance: Lockheed Martin Missiles & Fire Control
Author(s): Goldblith, Samuel A., Wick, Emily L.
Corporate Author(s): Massachusetts Inst Of Tech Cambridge
Laboratory: Life Support Systems Laboratory
Date of Publication: 1961-08
Pages: 66
Contract: AF 33(616)-6136
DoD Project: 6373
DoD Task: 63122
Identifier: AD0266882
Abstract:
Human fecal constituents were investigated for possible use in waste recovery systems aboard a space vehicle during a journey of long duration (1-3 months). In an attempt to investigate possible methods for recovering these constituents, it was necessary to first isolate them and then to evaluate their potential usefulness for waste recovery systems.A review of literature indicated that there is very incomplete knowledge of human fecal components, that detailed knowledge of the chemical nature of only a small proportion of fecal components exists, and that these have rarely been isolated in any quantity. However, protein, minerals and trace elements present in feces are possibly useful materials.Investigation indicated that use of fecal protein or its component amino acids as nutrients for man would require supplementation of the diet. A number of minerals were isolated from feces. If found to have nutritional value, feces could possibly serve as an available source of supply.Insufficient information (e.g., authentic space diets and identification of useful fecal components) exists to compare or recommend feasible methods for recovery of usable materials from feces in space vehicles.
Provenance: Lockheed Martin Missiles & Fire Control