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Lunar dust capture using novel multi-plexed inertial filter Year 2 of 3

Completed TRL 4 (started at 1, targeting 4)

Description

NASA has developed a new method of filtration (patent filed November 2021) with amazing results for liquid capture. This CIF project evaluates how this new filter can work for particulates – especially lunar dust. Year 1 results are promising – a filter has been designed specifically for particulates – the “slotted corkscrew” works in dry environments. Filters designed for liquid droplets can be modified to work as “slurry filters” Year 1 identified an unexpected infusion path – EPA incinerator flue gas cleanup.

Benefits

This projects aims to develop new technology to capture airborne dust (including lunar dust) with high capture efficiency, low pressure drop, high capacity.

Details

Technology areaExploration Destination Systems > Mission Infrastructure, Sustainability, and Supportability > Particulate Contamination Prevention and Mitigation
ProgramCenter Innovation Fund: JSC CIF (JSC CIF)
Lead organizationJohnson Space Center, Houston, TX
Start date2022-10-01
End date2023-09-30

Project contacts

Listed on TechPort itself — the most direct way to ask about this specific project.

How to get involved

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 4) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.

None of these are guaranteed paths for this specific project — TechPort itself doesn't have an "apply" button. Reaching out to the contact(s) above with a specific question is usually the fastest way to find out what's actually open.