Development of In-Situ Concrete Materials for Lunar Infrastructure

The Artemis program is about to start a new era of space exploration and a new chapter of human history. As part of this program, a sustained human presence on the Moon is a goal. The Moon, however, presents a variety of challenges that must be overcome by materials in lunar infrastructure for such a goal to be possible, like extreme temperatures, reduced gravity, and little to no atmosphere to protect from solar radiation. Concrete materials are one of the most plausible options as they can combat these issues as well as can be formed into unique shapes, be 3D printed, and provide resistance to the extreme environment. Here it is proposed that a lunar regolith geopolymer concrete be studied on the International Space Station. The designed mixtures maximize the amount of in-situ materials and minimize the need to transport materials from Earth. It is desired, however not required, that these samples be mixed and then placed within the Techshot Multi-use Variable-gravity Platform (MVP) to solidify at the Moon’s gravity level in order to obtain a proper understanding of the material for its intended end goal. After the samples return to Earth, a microstructural analysis using techniques such as scanning electron microscopy, x-ray diffraction, and nanoindentation will be used to understand the microstructural properties and try and deduce an understanding of mechanical performance. This project coincides with NASA’s Technology Roadmaps and specifically the materials section (12.1). By the end of this endeavor, it is envisioned that a material suitable and designed with maximum in-situ lunar resources will be formulated for use within the Artemis program to enable a sustained human presence on the Moon.

A material suitable and designed with maximum in-situ lunar resources will be formulated for use within the Artemis program to enable a sustained human presence on the Moon.

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 3) — 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.

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