Electrochemistry of lunar rocksElectrolysis of silicate melts has been shown to be an effective means of producing metals from common silicate materials. No fluxing agents need be added to the melts. From solution in melts of diopside (CaMgSi2O6) composition, the elements Si, Ti, Ni, and Fe have been reduced to their metallic states. Platinum is a satisfactory anode material, but other cathode materials are needed. Electrolysis of compositional analogs of lunar rocks initially produces iron metal at the cathode and oxygen gas at the anode. Utilizing mainly heat and electricity which are readily available from sunlight, direct electrolysis is capable of producing useful metals from common feedstocks without the need for expendable chemicals. This simple process and the products obtained from it deserve further study for use in materials processing in space.
Document ID
19790050818
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Lindstrom, D. J. (Washington Univ. Saint Louis, MO, United States)
Haskin, L. A. (Washington University St. Louis, Mo., United States)
Date Acquired
August 9, 2013
Publication Date
May 1, 1979
Subject Category
Lunar And Planetary Exploration
Report/Patent Number
AIAA PAPER 79-1380
Meeting Information
Meeting: Princeton University and American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Conference on Space Manufacturing Facilities, 4th, Princeton University