UAH research advances “plasma gun” technology that could transform space laundry and sanitation for future missions
Researchers at the University of Alabama in Huntsville are developing a 'laundry gun' that uses cold plasma to sanitize fabrics. This technology aims to help astronauts maintain hygiene on long-duration space missions by reducing microbial loads without water or chemicals.
Why it matters
Effective sanitation is a critical challenge for long-term human spaceflight to Mars or the moon, where resources like water are extremely limited.
Dr. Gabe Xu, a professor in the Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Department at The University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH).
Conducting plasma research in the Gabe Xu Lab on the UAH campus.
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