Automated Hybrid Microwave Heating for Lunar Surface Solidification

This SBIR project addresses the need for a system that will provide automated lunar surface stabilization via hybrid microwave heating. Surface stabilization is paramount to future lunar missions due to severe complications from dust on the Apollo space missions. This project focuses on development of a microwave surface solidification device, which could be incorporated into a roving system, to provide adequate working planes for robotic and manned operations. Phase I will demonstrate microwave system feasibility using advanced computer modeling and sophisticated laboratory experimentation with lunar simulant. Research will target surface heating of deep powder beds to best simulate in-situ use. Microwaves coupled with radiant heat sources will maximize heating efficiency. Hybrid microwave heating models will provide process optimization, direct correlations to lunar regolith heating, and a foundation for advanced automated control systems. Ceralink has assembled a team including research partner Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and commercialization partner Gerling Applied Engineering to successful bring this technology from a TRL 2 to a TRL 4 in Phase I. The team is well positioned to achieve TRL 6 with prototype demonstrations by the completion of Phase II, and ultimately deliver a fully functioning system.

Enhanced control and automation of continuous high-temperature microwave manufacturing systems Microwave sintering of ceramics Microwave sintering of powder metals Microwave brazing (ceramic-ceramic, ceramic-metal, metal-metal) Microwave synthesis (calcination, hydrothermal synthesis) Microwave-assisted mineral beneficiation, including ore cracking to improve comminution

The primary use of this technology by NASA is for surface solidification and stabilization. In addition, microwave heating holds promise for other lunar and planetary applications, which require in-situ heating of regoliths and minerals. Applications include: Oxygen, water, and other gas evolution from regolith Mineral and metal refinement Mineral beneficiation Ore comminution

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.

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