Summary

This paper explores the 3D printing of LDPE/lunar regolith simulant composites for in-situ resource utilization on the Moon. It compares single-screw and twin-screw extrusion methods for producing filaments with up to 30 wt% regolith. The study evaluates printability, tensile properties, and filament consistency, demonstrating the feasibility of using lunar regolith simulants in sustainable manufacturing for lunar applications. This study explores the use of Lunar mare regolith simulant (LMS-1D) for FFF 3D printing applications. LMS-1D, a commercially available mineral-based material, is designed to replicate the average composition of mare-type lunar soil. It has a particle size range of 0.04–35 µm, with a mean size of 6 µm. This size distribution was selected over one that more closely resembles Apollo regolith, as it is better suited for FFF 3D printing and can be used as received, eliminating the need for additional milling, which is typically required to avoid nozzle clogging when larger particles are present. An SEM image of the particles is shown in Fig. S1 (see Supporting Document). The paper discusses the fabrication of filaments using three different extrusion processes:

Methods and applications