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Erin DeVries, Anna Trumble, Nikita Robinson, Nathan Rouse, and Casey Slaughter
Missouri University of Science and Technology
Advisor: Dr. Mark Schlesinger
Abstract
The goal of this project is to create an augite of the appropriate composition so that it can be combined with other materials to produce an accurate lunar regolith simulant. Also, the group will create a physical processing circuit to create the appropriate particle size of augite found on the moon. The batching and physical processing circuit will be combined in an overall plan geared toward producing hundreds of tons of augite. This plan will be subjected to a cost analysis as well as an environmental analysis. The group will synthesize augite using raw materials as opposed to using mineral separation methods. Synthesizing augite can be a very complex process. The group has decided that it will begin with a simple procedure and make changes to that procedure based on findings from the XRD results. So far, the group has batched, melted and poured two different compositions of augite ((Ca, Fe, Mg)2SiO2). The first composition used Fe3O4 and Fe in an attempt to create FeO and contained 20.6 g CaO, 5.1 g Fe, 21.3 g Fe3O4, 44.1 g SiO2, and 14.8 g MgO. The second composition used just FeO and contained 28.6 g CaO, 36.6 g FeO, 20.53 g MgO, and 30.6 g SiO2. These samples are currently undergoing XRD testing and the results of these tests will determine which alterations the group plans to make to future samples.
NOTE: This project was sponsored by NASA's Exploration Systems Mission Directorate.
Erin DeVries, a senior in Ceramic Engineering with a minor in Engineering Management, is originally from St. Peters Missouri and is currently attending the Missouri University of Science and Technology. Erin is a member of Material Advantage executive council and plans to pursue a career in Quality Engineering.
Casey Slaughter a senior in Mining Engineering, is originally from Webb City Missouri and is currently attending the Missouri University of Science and Technology. Mostly involved with the mine rescue team Casey focuses much of his studies on the health and safety aspects of mining and intends to pursue a PhD in Mining Ventilation with particular emphasis on improving the efficiency and safety through the use of continuous monitoring and control devices.
Anna Trumble, is a senior ceramic engineering student at Missouri University of Science and Technology. Anna is from Overland Park, KS, attended Blue Valley Northwest Highschool and received many scholarships to attend MS&T. While at MS&T, Anna participated in several on and off campus organizations such as Vox, Society of Women Engineers, St. Pat's Board and Phi Sigma Rho. She also held many leadership positions in these organizations and served as president for her sorority. Anna Plans to graduate in May and will be headed down to Louisiana in July to start work with Saint-Gobain Containers
Nathan Rouse a senior in Mining Engineering, is originally from Willow Springs Missouri and is currently attending the Missouri University of Science and Technology. Nathan is captain of the mine rescue team and participates in the mucking team on campus. He is also a member of SME and ISEE and is involved in explosives testing. He plans on pursuing a Masters in Explosive Engineering and a PhD in Mining Engineering.
Nikita Robinson is a senior in the materials science department. She will be graduating in May with a B.S. in Ceramic Engineering. She is originally from Carlinville, IL and attended Carlinville High School.
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