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Electrolysis of simulated lunar meltsElectrolysis of molten lunar soil or rock is examined as an attractive means of wresting useful raw materials from lunar rocks. It requires only hat to melt the soil or rock and electricity to electrolyze it, and both can be developed from solar power. The conductivities of the simple silicate diopside, Mg CaSi2O6 were measured. Iron oxide was added to determine the effect on conductivity. The iron brought about substantial electronic conduction. The conductivities of simulated lunar lavas were measured. The simulated basalt had an AC conductivity nearly a fctor of two higher than that of diopside, reflecting the basalt's slightly higher total concentration of the 2+ ions Ca, Mg, and Fe that are the dominant charge carriers. Electrolysis was shown to be about 30% efficient for the basalt composition.
Document ID
19850018250
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Lewis, R. H. (Washington Univ. Saint Louis, MO, United States)
Lindstrom, D. J. (Washington Univ. Saint Louis, MO, United States)
Haskin, L. A. (Washington Univ. Saint Louis, MO, United States)
Date Acquired
August 12, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1985
Publication Information
Publication: Lunar and Planetary Inst. 16th Lunar and Planetary Sci. Conf.
Subject Category
Lunar And Planetary Exploration
Accession Number
85N26561
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.

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