A recent study has revealed that the International Space Station (ISS) harbors higher concentrations of chemical contaminants in its dust than what is typically found in most American households. Researchers analyzed a dust sample from the air filters onboard the ISS and identified contaminants like polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH), perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), some of which are known for their potential health risks. Published in Environmental Science and Technology Letters, the findings have implications for future space station designs.
Health Implications of Contaminants
The detected contaminants, including PAH with potential cancer risk and PFAS known as “forever chemicals,” which are difficult to degrade, are concerning due to their potential health impacts. While the concentrations on the ISS were higher than in most homes, they generally fall within ranges found on Earth.
Sources of Contamination
Possible sources of these contaminants on the ISS include inorganic flame retardants used in fabrics and webbing to prevent flammability. Commercial devices brought by astronauts, such as cameras, MP3 players, and tablet computers, could also introduce contaminants. The study suggests that thorough material selection during early design and construction phases of future space stations could help mitigate contaminant sources.
Efficiency of Contaminant Removal
The ISS employs a ventilation and contaminant removal system that recirculates air frequently, but the efficiency of this system in removing chemical contaminants from the space station’s dust remains uncertain. Researchers emphasize the need for careful material choices to exclude potential sources of contamination in upcoming space station designs.
Implications for Future Space Stations
While the ISS is slated for retirement in 2030, its findings have far-reaching implications for the development of future orbital laboratories. Stuart Harrad, co-author of the study and a researcher at the University of Birmingham, highlights the significance of these findings for the construction of future space stations, emphasizing the importance of preventing contaminant sources through careful design and material selection.
SOURCE: Ref Image from The National
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