MOSCOW. Jan 18 (Interfax) - Studies of the International Space Station's microflora have revealed a risk of damage to crucial infrastructure by microorganisms, the Russian Academy of Sciences' Institute of Biomedical Problems said in a report prepared for the Korolyov Readings.
Studies of microflora on the ISS have uncovered "medical and technological risks," the report said.
"The technological risks are created by the processes of bio-damage and bio-corrosion in structural material of the interior and equipment, as well as failures and malfunctions of certain parts of the regenerative life-sustenance systems," it said.
More than 100 species of microorganisms, including staphylococcus and diphtheria germs, have been found on the ISS, it said.
"New, effective forms of anti-microbe protection, including chemical and physical means and methods, need to be developed to maintain the optimal sanitary and microbiological conditions in the habitation modules," the report said.