Polymeric Reactors for Catalytic Reactions beyond Earth: Proof of concept

In this proof-of-concept, preliminary theoretical results are further developed validating the feasibility of polymeric reactors in thermo-catalysis at temperatures up to 220 °C for propellant production on Mars. The experimental study is conducted with a Ruthenium based low-temperature Methanation catalyst supported on Titania, which exhibits promising activity and selectivity under the reaction conditions applied in this study. Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) and Perfluoroalkoxy alkane (PFA) are used as reactor material, due to their robustness and the possible processing via additive manufacturing. The conducted experimental study proofs the applicability of polymeric reactors at methanation condition with a reasonable productivity. Although, light and Raman microscopy revealed a slight mechanical impairment of the inner reactor surface after the reaction, the investigation demonstrates the potential use of polymeric reactors at the upper limits of their operational capabilities. The successful operation over several days serves as a compelling proof-of-concept for the application of polymeric reactors in thermocatalytic gas-phase reactions. Hence, the study expands the material toolkit for space exploration with emphasis on production sites on Mars.