Particulate removal using a CO2 composite spray cleaning system

Summary

A CO₂ composite spray effectively removes sub-micron particles from spacecraft surfaces, addressing stringent planetary protection standards for Mars Sample Return missions. This unique dry-cleaning technology, tested in cleanrooms, is environmentally safe, portable, and shows the potential for robotic adaptation on Mars for in situ cleaning of sample handling devices. The system demonstrated high cleaning efficiency against various contaminants, achieving significant reductions in both microbial and particulate contamination.

Highlights

• Innovative Technology: CO₂ composite spray cleaning system developed for spacecraft.
• Environmental Safety: The cleaning method is environmentally friendly and easy to use.
• High Efficiency: Achieves a minimum 4-log reduction in aerosol-deposited spores.
• Versatile Applications: Suitable for complex geometries and various materials like aluminum and titanium.
• Robotic Potential: Future adaptability for in situ cleaning on Mars missions.
• Testing Success: Demonstrated effective removal of sub-micron particles and live/dead microbes.
• Collaboration: Developed in partnership with Cleanlogix LLC for optimized cleaning performance.

Key Insights

• Planetary Protection: CO₂ composite spray cleaning technology addresses the need for stringent planetary protection measures to prevent Earth contaminants from affecting Martian samples. This reflects the growing importance of contamination control in space exploration.
• Cleaning Limitations: Existing cleaning methods like vapor degreasing and alcohol wiping are inadequate for particulate removal, highlighting the necessity for innovative solutions that the CO₂ composite spray provides.
• Cleaning Mechanism: The CO₂ composite spray utilizes a unique phase-change cleaning action that effectively removes contaminants from complex surfaces without damaging delicate features, showcasing advanced cleaning technology.
• Surface Integrity: Scanning electron microscopy revealed that the CO₂ cleaning process does not adversely affect surface morphology, ensuring that sensitive spacecraft components remain intact post-cleaning.
• Robust Testing: The thorough testing methods, including aerosol and droplet deposition of contaminants, establish a reliable framework for evaluating cleaning efficiency, enhancing confidence in the system’s performance.
• Future Adaptation: The potential for this technology to be adapted into a robotic cleaning mechanism for Mars missions indicates a significant advancement in preparing for extraterrestrial sample handling.
• Standardized Procedures: Developing standardized cleaning protocols will optimize the CO₂ system’s capabilities, paving the way for its broader application in future space missions and ensuring compliance with planetary protection protocols.