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Completed TRL 3 (started at 2, targeting 3)
The goal of this proposal is to evaluate an unexplored alternative process which could change the architecture of metal extraction and regolith processing for In Situ Resource Utilization (ISRU). Currently, no process exists which can selectively extract metals from lunar and Martian regolith. The strong oxidizing and solvation properties of trichloride ionic liquids (TCILs) offers a low-temperature route to extract metals from lunar and Martian regolith.
The proposed project is relevant to NASA’s deep space exploration effort to enhance and enable ISRU technological capabilities.
Listed on TechPort itself — the most direct way to ask about this specific project.
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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