Potential Applications for Bioelectrochemical Systems for Space Exploration

The goals of future long-duration space exploration require higher degrees of material closure and self-sustainability. Bioelectrochemical systems (BESs) have the potential to expand the utilization of biological processes for the in situ generation of products and the advancement of life support systems. BESs employ unique microorganisms that utilize extracellular electron transport to increase metabolic capacity and efficiency. Waste streams and planetary resources could be utilized for the production of a wide array of electrobiocommodities by exploiting and potentially enhancing naturally occurring reactions in microbial systems. BESs have the potential to yield a wide array of space-relevant products, such as biofuels, bioplastics, bioadhesives, therapeutics and food products. This paper discusses the application of BESs in space, including potential products, reactor design, and the unique challenges associated with BES operation in space environments.