About this Abstract |
| Meeting |
MS&T25: Materials Science & Technology
|
| Symposium
|
Materials and Manufacturing in Low Earth Orbit (and Beyond)
|
| Presentation Title |
Laser Directed Energy Deposition Additive Manufacturing of Lunar Regolith Simulant |
| Author(s) |
Sizhe Xu, Marwan Haddad , Aslan Bafahm Alamdari , Annabel Shim, Alan A. Luo, Sarah Wolff |
| On-Site Speaker (Planned) |
Sizhe Xu |
| Abstract Scope |
This study investigates the feasibility of laser-directed energy deposition (L-DED) additive manufacturing for processing lunar regolith simulant, a critical step toward in-situ resource utilization in extraterrestrial environments. A systematic evaluation of process parameters—including laser power, scanning speed, and environmental conditions (ambient air, argon, and partial vacuum)—was conducted to optimize printing performance. Microstructural and phase evolution were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), revealing the formation of mullite-rich phases under specific conditions. Substrate compatibility was also examined, with alumina-silicate ceramics exhibiting superior clad adhesion. Morphological analysis showed porous, tube-like structures whose geometry correlated with processing settings. A comprehensive processing map was developed to guide the selection of optimal L-DED parameters. These results demonstrate that L-DED enables the controlled fabrication of high-temperature-stable mullite structures, advancing the potential for sustainable in-situ construction on the Moon. |