Viscosity measurements of selected lunar regolith simulants
Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: In the context of evaluating lunar construction options, this study focuses on characterizing the viscosities and glass transition properties of lunar regolith simulants to support the development of additive manufacturing processes using molten regolith. Employing the modular TUBS lunar regolith simulant system, we measured the viscosities of different simulants through high-temperature experiments conducted between 1051 and 1490 °C using concentric cylinder viscometry in air. Additionally, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) was utilized to evaluate the glass transition temperatures, which were in the range between 689 and 815 °C. The measured viscosity data were parameterized by the Vogel-Fulcher-Tammann (VFT) equation, which is adept at describing the viscosities and related properties of silicate liquids. The measured viscosities were compared with the predicted values of six viscosity models. The model by Sehlke and Whittington (2016) best predicts the viscosities of the tested lunar regolith simulants at superliquidus temperatures, and no model adequately predicts viscosities at the glass transition temperature, indicating a need for further research in this area. We infer that 3D printing technologies based on molten lunar regolith are, viscosity-wise, best constrained to highland regions. The reduced environment on the Moon influences the 3D printing process in a positive manner.
Source: American Mineralogist
DOI: 10.2138/am-2023-9263
Language: English
Subfield: Astronomy and Astrophysics
Field: Physics and Astronomy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $100
OpenAlex ID: W4404181199