Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS) for ISRU-Oriented Lunar Soil Simulant Densification: Microstructural Evolution and Mechanical Characteristics

Mahdieh Khedmati, Xiang Zhang, Shayan Gholami, Bai Cui, Yong Rak Kim, Hyu Soung Shin, Jangguen Lee, Young Jae Kim

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

1 Scopus citations

Abstract

This study attempted the spark plasma sintering (SPS) method to consolidate lunar soil simulants and evaluated the SPS parameters such as sintering temperature and pressure on densification behavior and mechanical properties. Toward that end, a lunar simulant FJS-1 was selected, and the simulant was sintered at different temperatures and pressures. Test results of density, microstructure, and nanomechanical properties were compared to investigate the effects of varying sintering conditions. In general, it appeared that the SPS method could successfully densify the FJS-1 simulant at proper conditions, and the level of densification and development of microstructure and mechanical properties were dependent on SPS conditions (such as temperature, pressure). Mechanical tests results along with the microstructural characteristics imply that the SPS can be considered a promising in situ resource utilization (ISRU) method to densify lunar soils for potential space construction and architecture.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationEarth and Space 2021
Subtitle of host publicationSpace Exploration, Utilization, Engineering, and Construction in Extreme Environments - Selected Papers from the 17th Biennial International Conference on Engineering, Science, Construction, and Operations in Challenging Environments
EditorsPaul J. van Susante, Alaina Dickason Roberts
PublisherAmerican Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)
Pages1409-1418
Number of pages10
ISBN (Electronic)9780784483374
DOIs
StatePublished - 2021
Event17th Biennial International Conference on Engineering, Science, Construction, and Operations in Challenging Environments: Space Exploration, Utilization, Engineering, and Construction in Extreme Environments, Earth and Space 2021 - Seattle, United States
Duration: Apr 19 2021Apr 23 2021

Publication series

NameEarth and Space 2021: Space Exploration, Utilization, Engineering, and Construction in Extreme Environments - Selected Papers from the 17th Biennial International Conference on Engineering, Science, Construction, and Operations in Challenging Environments

Conference

Conference17th Biennial International Conference on Engineering, Science, Construction, and Operations in Challenging Environments: Space Exploration, Utilization, Engineering, and Construction in Extreme Environments, Earth and Space 2021
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CitySeattle
Period4/19/214/23/21

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Building and Construction
  • Environmental Engineering
  • Civil and Structural Engineering

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