In Situ Lunar Surface Measurements Via Miniature Gas Chromatography

The Lunar Exploration Analysis Group (LEAG) has placed a high priority on determining the nature, distribution and transport of volatiles on the moon. The objective of this proposal is to create chip scale gas chromatographs for lunar exploration. Under DARPA support, Cbana has created a new class of microGCs that are smaller than ever before and yet show performance similar to those of full scale commercial GCs. In the proposed work we will redesign the GCs so that they can separate and detect the likely volatiles on the moon. A key step will be to replace the single GC column in our current device with 3 columns in series integrated into the same package in the proposed device. We will develop methodology to construct columns with the proper coatings and integrate them into a single package. We will also explore the effects of the temperature gradients on the columns in the harsh environment near the lunar poles. The will enable cbana to design devices that will be effective on the moon in phase II.

The microGCs have a wealth of potential commercial opportunities. Examples include: indoor air quality (IAQ) monitoring and remediation, industrial pollution containment and elimination, narcotics detection, cargo monitoring, explosives detection, and lung cancer screening. Also, we will have a military device to detect chemical warfare agents that can support a 7-day mission packaged in the space of only a few cubic centimeters. This integrated device comprising a micro-GC, detectors, reagents and power supply will have the potential to: 1) identify chemical threats in a battlefield; 2) provide assessment of warfighter health status, chemical exposure, stress level, and hydration; and 3) detect human activity in caves and other structures. The use of Cbana components in NASA missions will aid the deployment of Cbana's sensors in the commercial market. One of the key milestones in Cbana's business plan is to secure independent groups to validate the technology. Inclusion of the Cbana equipment as an integral component of one or more NASA missions would facilitate our goal of independent validation, hence furthering commercial market acceptance.

If we are successful through Phase II, we will demonstrate that the Cbana microGCs re robust enough to be used on the moon, and can detect a broad range of volatiles. The devices will be ready to be integrated into a robotic lander or survey network for the moon, and allow a survey for water or other species that could enable human habitation of the moon.

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.

None of these are guaranteed paths for this specific project — TechPort itself doesn't have an "apply" button. Reaching out to the contact(s) above with a specific question is usually the fastest way to find out what's actually open.