Lunar production of oxygen by electrolysisTwo approaches to prepare oxygen from lunar resources by direct electrolysis are discussed. Silicates can be melted or dissolved in a fused salt and electrolyzed with oxygen evolved at the anode. Direct melting and electrolysis is potentially a very simple process, but high temperatures of 1400-1500 C are required, which aggravates materials problems. Operating temperatures can be lowered to about 1000 C by employing a molten salt flux. In this case, however, losses of electrolyte components must be avoided. Experimentation on both approaches is progressing.
Document ID
19920035167
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Keller, Rudolf (EMEC Consultants Export, PA, United States)