The In-Situ Construction from Vitrified Regolith of Large Structures Including Habitats in Artificial Lava Caves
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R. J. Sollieux et al. (2015), JBIS, 68, pp.268-274
Refcode: 2015.68.268
Abstract:
The most widely available lunar resources are the local regolith and power from sunlight. In-situ vitrification technology and techniques exist to construct paving, equipment foundations and radiation proof shelters. New methods are proposed for making dust free chambers strong enough to support atmospheric pressure. These methods require minimal excavation and should enable remote operation from Earth. The equipment could provide feedstock for a cast basalt industry for structural elements and fittings. By-products would be volatiles and iron. Consumables and high tech equipment only would need to be imported from Earth. Power required is half that for cement production.
