Method predicts effects of carbon monoxide on astronauts confined in spacecraft cabin atmospheres. Information on need for low toxicity level also applies to confined spaces. Benefits are applicable to industry and public health

Edgerley, R. H.

English

NASA Technical Reports Server

August 1971	 Brief 71-10319 
NASA TECH BRIEF 
Manned Spacecraft Center 
NASA Tech Briefs announce new technology derived from the U.S. space program. They are issued to encourage 
commercial aplication. Tech Briefs are available on a subscription basis from the National Technical Information 
Service, Springfield; Virginia 22151. Requests for individual copies or questions relating to the, Tech Brief program may 
be directed to the Technology Utilization Office, NASA, Code KT, Washington, D.C. 20546. 
Estimating Carbon Monoxide Exposure 
Following a study of the nature of carbon monox-
ide poisoning and its relationship to human exposure a 
novel method of predicting the effects of carbon monox-
ide on astronauts confined in the artifical atmosphere of 
a spacecraft was developed. From this, precise correla-
tions of carbon monoxide poisoning, breathing rates, 
and variations in atmospheric conditions have been es-
tablished. 
The nature of carbon monoxide toxicity, and two

novel equations have also been developed. From these

equations it is possible to estimate the carboxy haemo-

globin form when carbon monoxide is inhaled and when

adjustments for pulmonary ventilation are necessary.

The results of the study emphasized the need for a

low carbon monoxide toxicity level in spacecraft with

an upper limit of 17 mg/m3 . Means to monitor and con-

trol the build-up of concentrations of the gas are im-

portant not only in artifical atmospheres but in confined

spaces also. Sources of carbon monoxide are discussed,

and allusion is made to some unusual generators of this

gas - such as paints, marking ink, and activated charcoal.

Although the investigations were concerned pri-

marily with an aerospace problem the information re-

vealed has widespread application. Industrial installa-
tions, such as coke ovens and power plants; domestic 
gas heating systems; and automobiles in congested city 
streets all generate carbon monoxide and constitute a 
potential hazard. Thus, the contents of this report will 
be of interest to all who are concerned with public 
health, including industrial safety officers. 
Note:
Requests for further information may be directed 
to:
Technology Utilization Officer 
Manned Spacecraft Center, Code JM7 
Houston, Texas 77058 
Reference: TSP71-103 19 
Patent status: 
No patent action contemplated by NASA. 
Source: Robert E. Edgerley

North American Rockwell Corp.

under contract to

Manned Spacecraft Center

(MSC-1721 1) 
Category 04 
This document was prepared under the sponsorship of the National
	 Government assumes any liability resulting from the use of the 
Aeronautics and Space Administration. Neither the United States
	 information contained in this document, or warrants that such use 
Government nor any person acting on behalf of the United States
	 will be free from privately ownedrights.
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Estimating carbon monoxide exposure

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