Extraterrestrial exploration, represented by Lunar base construction, has been promoted worldwide as a multi-disciplinary, cutting-edge and strategic issue. Originated from lunar geopolymers, we herein proposed a novel extraterrestrial construction scheme, silicate solidified lunar regolith (SSLR). It contains only 4 wt% of silicates, which no longer undergo geopolymerization but bind the particles through vacuum dehydration. Under this mechanism, various silicate modulus and modifications (inorganic, organic and physical modifications) have been detected to optimize the silicate adhesive. Through a simulated lunar environment combining high vacuum and large temperature variation, SSLR can be produced in both thermal and cryogenic vacuum, and it presents comprehensive durability with stable microstructures and over 70% of residual strength. Based on these material properties, this study further designed two processing methods for SSLR, mold-pressing and roll-pressing. In the former, a press mold along with water condensation recycle system was verified, and the influences of lunar regolith type, molding pressure and mortise-tenon fit relations are systematically revealed to study the mechanical properties of SSLR bricks and their assembly. In the latter, a specialized 3D printhead was designed for powder extrusion and passive roll-pressing. Therein, the roll-press effects, as well as the flexural and interfacial strengths of print layers are comprehensively investigated considering various roller-spring parameters, lunar regolith types and printing modes. This novel scheme will bring more prospects in both material and processing aspects for future lunar constructions.

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Silicate Solidified Lunar Regolith: A Novel Scheme from Material Properties to Processing Methods

  • Zifan Geng,
  • Guoqing Geng

摘要

Extraterrestrial exploration, represented by Lunar base construction, has been promoted worldwide as a multi-disciplinary, cutting-edge and strategic issue. Originated from lunar geopolymers, we herein proposed a novel extraterrestrial construction scheme, silicate solidified lunar regolith (SSLR). It contains only 4 wt% of silicates, which no longer undergo geopolymerization but bind the particles through vacuum dehydration. Under this mechanism, various silicate modulus and modifications (inorganic, organic and physical modifications) have been detected to optimize the silicate adhesive. Through a simulated lunar environment combining high vacuum and large temperature variation, SSLR can be produced in both thermal and cryogenic vacuum, and it presents comprehensive durability with stable microstructures and over 70% of residual strength. Based on these material properties, this study further designed two processing methods for SSLR, mold-pressing and roll-pressing. In the former, a press mold along with water condensation recycle system was verified, and the influences of lunar regolith type, molding pressure and mortise-tenon fit relations are systematically revealed to study the mechanical properties of SSLR bricks and their assembly. In the latter, a specialized 3D printhead was designed for powder extrusion and passive roll-pressing. Therein, the roll-press effects, as well as the flexural and interfacial strengths of print layers are comprehensively investigated considering various roller-spring parameters, lunar regolith types and printing modes. This novel scheme will bring more prospects in both material and processing aspects for future lunar constructions.