Electrostatic beneficiation of ores on the moon surfaceThe feasibility of the electrostatic beneficiation of lunar ores is studied. It is shown that the lunar environment with its sustained high vacuum, low temperature, and low acceleration of gravity, is suitable for the use of the electrostatic technique with magnetic as well as nonmagnetic ores. Only an initial coarse screening will be required prior to processing, as the lunar soil is already in fine particulate form. The low temperature and the absence of water suggest the use of tribo-electrification for the electric charging of lunar soils.
Document ID
19800039092
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Proceedings
Authors
Inculet, I. I. (Western Ontario, University London, Canada)
Criswell, D. R. (Lunar and Planetary Institute Houston, Tex., United States)