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Completed TRL 5 (started at 4, targeting 5)
Lunar Resources proposes the ""Silicon and Iron Extraction on the Moon"" (SIRE) project to mature molten regolith electrolysis (MRE) extraction of silicon and iron from lunar regolith. The project will leverage Lunar Resources' proprietary MRE technology to demonstrate the extraction and refinement of high-purity silicon and iron from lunar regolith simulant. SIRE's goal is to raise the technology readiness level (TRL) of molten regolith electrolysis extraction of high purity silicon and iron from lunar regolith simulant TRL 4 to TRL 5. The Phase I project will take 6 months to complete with an estimated cost of ~$150,000.
The SIRE project will directly support NASA's goals of developing a permanent lunarpresence by maturing the capability of extracting high-purity metals that can be utilized forISRU solar arrays, construction materials and be alloyed for metallurgical applications. Commercial opportunities of SIRE include sales of in-situ silicon and iron to lunarcommercial operators. In addition, the technology may be able to support terrestrialresource extraction activities.
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This is early/mid-stage (TRL 5) — 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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