Simultaneous Separation, Seaming and Sealing using Brazing (S~3B) for Sample Containerization and Planetary Protection

摘要

Any future NASA mission would require protection of our planet from the risk of possibly returning uncontrolled biological materials. For this purpose, it is necessary to contain the acquired samples and destroy any potential biological materials that may contaminate the external surface of the container while protecting the sample itself for further analysis. A novel method that allows simultaneous separation, seaming and sealing using brazing (S~3B) process for sample Containerization and planetary protection has been conceived and demonstrated. A double wall container is used with clean inner-walls allowing brazing the container base (containing the sample) to its lid while separating it from the support mount and assuring its seal. The use of brazing materials that melt at temperatures that are higher than 500℃ assures sterilization of the exposed areas that can potentially be contaminated by biological materials from Mars and other planets. The results of this study and the issues that were identified to require attention will be described and discussed.