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A Microwave Powered Solid Waste Stabilization and Water Recovery Prototype system has been developed for the treatment of solid waste materials generated during extended manned space missions. The system recovers water initially contained within wastes and stabilizes the residue with respect to microbial growth. Dry waste may then be safely stored or passed on to the next waste treatment process. Using microwave power, water present in the solid waste is selectively and rapidly heated. Liquid phase water flashes to steam and superheats. Hot water and steam formed in the interior of waste particles create an environment that is lethal to bacteria, yeasts, molds, and viruses. Steam contacts exposed surfaces and provides an effective thermal kill of microbes, in a manner similar to that of an autoclave. Volatilized water vapor is recovered by condensation.

The ability to aseptically remove samples and products, and the capability for addition of materials to sterile or otherwise microbially susceptible systems have always been compromised by the lack of a reliable means of sterilizing the mating fixtures. Cultures of mammalian cells are particularly vulnerable to microbial contamination due to the complexity of nutrient media and the lengthy periods required for cell growth. The Microwave Sterilizable Access Port has been developed to overcome this limitation. The system consists of three primary components: a microwave power source, a combined sterilization chamber/in-line valve port assembly, and a specimen transfer interface. Microwave energy is transmitted via coaxial cable to a small pressurized chamber that serves as a sterile transition between the surrounding environment and the system during transfer of materials.