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  • Basalt fiber composites for the robotic fabrication of a lunar habitat

    Paper number

    IAC-22,A3,IPB,9,x68749

    Author

    Ms. Ina Cheibas, Switzerland, ETHZ

    Coauthor

    Ms. Belinda Rich, The Netherlands, European Space Agency (ESA)

    Coauthor

    Ms. Marlies Arnhof, The Netherlands, Advanced Concepts Team, ESA

    Year

    2022

    Abstract
    This study investigates the mechanical properties of a novel composite for a lunar space habitat. The research aims to identify a robotically fabricated solution for a high-mechanical strength shell with in-situ resources. We manufactured composites from several basalt fiber types and geopolymer matrices. The effect of the basalt fiber type, chopped, spooled, and long, and fiber percentage, 1 wt\%, 5 wt\%, and 10 wt\%, was investigated. The samples were initially exposed to a maximum lunar environmental temperature (117°C) and a medium vacuum (0.01 atm) for 24 hours. Then, they were tested for flexural and compressive strengths until failure occurred. The experiments have proven a successful consolidation between the basalt fibers and the geopolymer matrix. Furthermore, the 10\% chopped basalt fiber and the 5\% long basalt fiber composite proved to be the most promising combination for mechanical strength. These composites demonstrated an improved compressive and flexural strength for the geopolymer-based cement slurry. Moreover, this study enables the robotic fabrication potential of a mechanically resilient lunar habitat.
    Abstract document

    IAC-22,A3,IPB,9,x68749.brief.pdf

    Manuscript document

    IAC-22,A3,IPB,9,x68749.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

    To get the manuscript, please contact IAF Secretariat.