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This research aims to evaluate the accumulation of foreign object debris in ISS ventilation systems and its effects.

May 9, 2026Open Access

Evaluation of the Accumulation of Foreign Object Debris in the International Space Station Ventilation Systems and Resulting Impacts to Systems

Key Points

This research aims to evaluate the accumulation of foreign object debris in ISS ventilation systems and its effects.
Comparison of foreign object debris levels from 2012 to current observations.
Assessment of the impacts on air circulation, equipment longevity, and cleaning time.
Evaluation of existing filtration methods including charcoal and HEPA filters.
Increased foreign object debris results in reduced air circulation and damage to equipment.
Crew time for cleaning has significantly increased due to FOD accumulation.
Recommendations for enhanced filtration systems are proposed to minimize future FOD buildup.

Abstract

A challenge for the International Space Station (ISS) is accumulation of foreign object debris (FOD) in the ventilation systems and the impacts to crew, equipment, and experiments. One function of the temperature and humidity control system is to capture FOD with various methods of filtration to minimize these impacts. ISS filtration has been augmented by charcoal and High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters and screens. A qualitative comparison of the quantity of FOD found since 2012 study and the current levels are evaluated. Impacts due to FOD are reduced air circulation, increased crew time for cleaning, reduction of equipment life, and component damage; examples are provided. Recommendations for further improvements to reduce the accumulation of FOD on ISS are provided.

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