An electrostatic precipitator system for the Martian environment

• Published in: Journal of electrostatics Vol. 71; no. 3; pp. 254 - 256
• Main Authors: Calle, C.I., Mackey, P.J., Hogue, M.D., Johansen, M.R., Kelley, J.D., Phillips, J.R., Clements, J.S.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier B.V 01-06-2013
• Subjects: Atmospherics; Commodities; Dust; Electrostatic precipitator; Electrostatic precipitators; Mars; Mars atmosphere; Particle charging; Particle control; Prototypes; Simulation; Space applications; Particle control; Electrostatic precipitator; Space applications; Particle charging
• ISSN: 0304-3886; 1873-5738
• DOI: 10.1016/j.elstat.2012.10.008

Human exploration missions to Mars will require the development of technologies for the utilization of the planet's own resources for the production of commodities. However, the Martian atmosphere contains large amounts of dust. The extraction of commodities from this atmosphere requires prior removal of this dust. We report on our development of an electrostatic precipitator able to collect Martian simulated dust particles in atmospheric conditions approaching those of Mars. Extensive experiments with an initial prototype in a simulated Martian atmosphere showed efficiencies of 99%. The design of a second prototype with aerosolized Martian simulated dust in a flow-through is described.