Advancements in Lunar Habitat Construction Using Regolith Solidification Techniques

Advancements in lunar habitat construction: evaluating in situ regolith solidification techniques for Moon colonization As lunar exploration transitions from mere investigation to active construction and utilization, developing efficient methods for building on the Moon becomes crucial. Central to this effort is the solidification and formation of lunar soil (regolith), which aims to utilize local resources effectively while reducing transportation and maintenance costs. Researchers have explored nearly 20 different methods for preparing regolith-based construction materials, each with unique advantages and requirements. Professor Feng from Tsinghua University has conducted an extensive review, categorizing these techniques and evaluating their performance, highlighting key challenges and future directions. These regolith solidification methods are primarily classified based on how particles bond and stick together into four main groups: reaction solidification (RS), sintering/melting (SM), bonding solidification (BS), and confinement formation (CF). Each group includes specific techniques tailored to different operational needs, forming a comprehensive technological framework. T...