Search of source of toxic benzene in the atmosphere of the ISS failed due to the failure of the American analyzer of air when carrying out measurements in the Russian segment.
“AQM-1 made two measurements in the Russian segment, after which it tripped the fuse. The device was returned to the U.S. segment for analysis, which detects a short circuit inside the AQM-1”, – quotes RIA “news” the message of NASA.
Previously, the exchange between Russian and American segments of the ISS ceased to search for a source of benzene, with measurements performed in the Russian segment using the device for determining the air quality AQM-1.
18 June it was reported that NASA suggested the source of the leak of benzene on the ISS: Increased level of toxic benzene in the atmosphere of the International space station could cause air cleaner in one of the American modules.
Recall that in late may on the ISS, recorded a higher concentration of benzene.
Benzene is a colorless liquid with a specific sweet smell. Included in gasoline and used for production of drugs, plastics, synthetic rubber and dyes. Toxic and carcinogenic.
And in March, the ISS crew felt an unusual smell after the arrival of the American unmanned Dragon ship-2 in air was recorded a high content of isopropyl alcohol. However, after the departure of the Dragon-2 smell of alcohol on the ISS is gone.
