Heat transfer modelling in the lunar regolith simulator. The problem statement

Аuthors

Kochnev K. V.^1*, Nenarokomov A. V.^2**

1. Moscow Aviation Institute (National Research University), 4, Volokolamskoe shosse, Moscow, А-80, GSP-3, 125993, Russia
2. ,

*e-mail: kochnevkirillvl@gmail.com
**e-mail: nenarokomovav@mai.ru

Abstract

This work formulated the problem of mathematical modelling of the lunar regolith melting process under the impact of the concentrated sunlight.

The basic purpose of the work consisted in determining the process parameters for their sub-sequent application in the mathematical model developing. Three components, such as the object being affected, environmental conditions and the affecting tool were considered.

The lunar regolith acts as an object, and its thermophysical characteristics have been studied. The regolith heat capacity values and its particles size were obtained. The expected required power and melting temperature were computed. A conclusion was made that it was worthwhile considering the sintering process, i.e. the process, at which one of the components, which plays the part of the binder, is being brought up to the melting temperature. SiO₂ was selected as this component. Composition the regolith simulator, which is being planned for application in the future full-scale experiments, was considered as well.

The case in hand is about melting simulation under lunar conditions, thus, an inference on the regolith initial temperature, as well as the heat exchange between the regolith and surrounding space was drawn fr om the media conditions.

A device based on a parabolic solar concentrator was considered as a tool of impact. The main parabolic mirror of the device collects solar radiation, and a system of mirrors redirects it to the working area, wh ere a ray of concentrated solar energy heats the regolith. The following parameters of the concentrated solar energy beam were obtained from the design features: beam diameter, and energy density in the beam.

Keywords:

lunar regolith, sintering, additive technologies, solar concentrator, lunar base

References

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