Synthesis and evaluation of electroactive CO₂ carriers

Long duration activities by man in space requires a regenerable CO ₂ removal system. Current systems under study include those based on the oxygen/hydrogen fuel cell and an amine resin. Both approaches are based on well-known acid-base chemistry of CO₂. Our efforts are directed at the development of electroactive CO₂ carrier molecules that are capable of binding CO₂ when in the reduced form and releasing CO ₂ in the oxidized form. The successful development of these carriers would provide the chemical basis for a more efficient CO₂ removal system and offers other potential advantages as well. The general requirements and advantages of electroactive CO₂ carrier molecules are discussed. In addition, studies on carrier molecules which demonstrate the feasibility of this approach are described.