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Reduction of iron-bearing lunar minerals for the production of oxygenThe kinetics and mechanism of the reduction of simulants of the iron-bearing lunar minerals olivine ((Fe,Mg)2SiO4), pyroxene ((Fe,Mg,Ca)SiO3), and ilmenite (FeTiO3) are investigated, extending previous work with ilmenite. Fayalite is reduced by H2 at 1070 K to 1480 K. A layer of mixed silica glass and iron forms around an unreacted core. Reaction kinetics are influenced by permeation of hydrogen through this layer and a reaction step involving dissociated hydrogen. Reaction mechanisms are independent of Mg content. Augite, hypersthene, and hedenbergite are reduced in H2 at the same temperatures. The products are iron metal and lower iron silicates mixed throughout the mineral. Activation energy rises with calcium content. Ilmenite and fayalite are reduced with carbon deposited on partially reduced minerals via the CO disproportionation reaction. Reduction with carbon is rapid, showing the carbothermal reduction of lunar minerals is possible.
Document ID
19930017487
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Other
Authors
Massieon, Charles
(Arizona Univ. Tucson, AZ, United States)
Cutler, Andrew
(Arizona Univ. Tucson, AZ, United States)
Shadman, Farhang
(Arizona Univ. Tucson, AZ, United States)
Date Acquired
September 6, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1992
Publication Information
Publication: NASA Space Engineering Research Center for Utilization of Local Planetary Resources
Subject Category
Inorganic And Physical Chemistry
Accession Number
93N26676
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.
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