چکیده :
It is the primary task for a bioregenerative life support system (BLSS) to maintain the stable concentrations of CO2 and O2. However,
these concentrations could fluctuate based on various factors, such as the imbalance between respiration/assimilation quotients of the heterotrophic
and autotrophic components. They can even be out of balance through catastrophic failure of higher plants in the emergency
conditions. In this study, the feasibility of using unicellular Chlorella vulgaris of typically rapid growth as both “compensatory system” and
“regulator” to control the balance of CO2 and O2 was analyzed in a closed ecosystem. For this purpose, a small closed ecosystem called
integrative experimental system (IES) was established in our laboratory where we have been conducting multi-biological life support system
experiments (MLSSE). The IES consists of a closed integrative cultivating system (CICS) and a plate photo-bioreactor. Four volunteers
participated in the study for gas exchange by periodical breathing through a tube connected with the CICS. The plate photo-bioreactor was
used to cultivateC. vulgaris. Results showed that the culture ofC. vulgaris could be used in a situation of catastrophic failure of higher plant
under the emergencies. And the productivity could recover itself to the original state in 3 to 5 days to protect the system till the higher plant
was renewed. Besides, C. vulgaris could grow well and the productivity could be affected by the light intensity which could help to keep the
balance of CO2 and O2 in the IES efficiently. Thus, C. vulgaris could be included in the design of a BLSS as a “compensatory system” in the
emergency contingency and a “regulator” during the normal maintenance.
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