MATRI(x): Multi-Application Technology for Regolith Infrastructure

The proposed innovation is a low energy, ISRU based system for enhancing bulk regolith to construct a wide array of sustainable and resilient lunar infrastructures. This process utilizes minimalist methodssuch as size sorting, compacting, geogrid laying, and surface hardeningto significantly enhance the structural properties of regolith. The Phase II outcome is a fully integrated system, including methods, materials, and prototype apparatus, validated in a simulated lunar environment (DT-VAC) and designed within the mass and energy constraints of a CLPS type payload. The system can construct both 2D and 3D infrastructure including roads, berms, foundations, and load bearing walls, targeting under 2% non-lunar sourced material and 20% of the power required for regolith sintering. The technology will facilitate surface operations, enable greater lunar mobility, and provide critical protection for astronauts and mission assets against hazards like space radiation, micrometeorite impacts, rocket plumes, moonquakes, extreme thermal variations, and lunar dust. In Phase I, the technology demonstrated significant advancements, achieving 165 times the compressive strength of untreated regolith. A prototype surfacing apparatus was validated in DT-VAC by successfully paving and driving over a lunar road in a vacuum 900 times (720 meters). Building on these achievements, Phase II will focus on integrating and automating processes such as excavation, size sorting, and compaction into a scalable system capable of constructing 3D infrastructure on the lunar surface by augmenting the system with a Z-axis. The final prototype is envisioned as one or two implements that can be mounted on a lander, rover, or robotic arm. This technology also includes rigorous validation of materials under simulated lunar conditions, including cryogenic vacuum testing and thermal cycling to ensure the longevity and durability of the constructed infrastructure. The proposed innovation is a low energy, ISRU based system for enhancing bulk regolith to construct a wide array of sustainable and resilient lunar infrastructures. The system utilizes minimalist methods—size sorting, compacting, geogrid laying, and surface hardening—to significantly enhance the structural properties of regolith. In Phase I, the technology showcased an over 100X increase in compressive strength and included a prototype apparatus which successfully paved a lunar “road” in a simulated lunar environment (DT-VAC). Phase II aims to integrate and automate these processes into a scalable system, incorporating a Z-axis for 3D construction capabilities. Designed within the mass and energy constraints of a CLPS type payload, the technology targets under 2% non-lunar sourced materials and 20% of the power required for traditional regolith sintering. The technology will facilitate surface operations, enable greater lunar mobility, and provide critical protection for astronauts and mission assets, supporting future Artemis missions and NASA’s goals for a sustained lunar presence.  Design lunar geogrids, optimizing mesh sizes and geometries for mechanical interlocking and load distribution. Develop techniques for shaping, forming, and welding meshes using lunar-derived materials.  Optimize bulk regolith “restructuring” through size-sorting and recombination to maximize compatibility with lunar geogrids.  Characterize materials in simulated lunar conditions, testing geogrid and surfacing materials in DT-VAC, including cryogenic exposure and thermal cycling to validate their durability.  Build rover implements which integrate regolith excavation/sorting, compacting, surface paving, and mesh laying, performing an integrated systems test in DT-VAC.  Use the construction system to build a lunar trackway and berm wall in simulated lunar conditions, testing functionality and durability of both the equipment and the structures.  Perform a shake table test and Finite Element Analysis (FEA) of regolith structures, visualizing the effects of moonquake simulations and correlating structural analyses with empirical data.  Develop a Concept of Operation for a Lunar Surface Demonstration which aims to prove the technology’s readiness for larger lunar applications.  Submit quarterly reports, concluding with a final report with drawings and specifications of a prototype payload designed for a CLPS type mission and validated in DT-VAC. 

NASA applications for our technology span lunar construction and surface preparation, focusing on creating durable infrastructure like roads and protective shelters. By enhancing regolith's structural properties using minimal imported materials, our method supports sustained lunar presence. It enables the construction of launch pads, habitats, and operational platforms, crucial for upcoming Artemis missions and beyond, reducing the logistical footprint by utilizing in-situ resources effectively.  The technology applies directly to commercial lunar services, focusing on construction vital for power, mobility, and energy infrastructure. For private entities involved in mining, tourism, and scientific exploration, our technology enhances operational safety and efficiency, reduces maintenance and redundancy, and extends service lifespans, presenting a valuable investment for the lunar economy. 

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 6) — 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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