MATRI(x): Multi-Application Technology for Regolith Infrastructure

The proposed innovation is a low energy, ISRU based system for enhancing bulk regolith to construct a wide array of sustainable and resilient lunar infrastructures. This process utilizes minimalist methodssuch as size sorting, compacting, geogrid laying, and surface hardeningto significantly enhance the structural properties of regolith. The Phase II outcome is a fully integrated system, including methods, materials, and prototype apparatus, validated in a simulated lunar environment (DT-VAC) and designed within the mass and energy constraints of a CLPS type payload. The system can construct both 2D and 3D infrastructure including roads, berms, foundations, and load bearing walls, targeting under 2% non-lunar sourced material and 20% of the power required for regolith sintering. The technology will facilitate surface operations, enable greater lunar mobility, and provide critical protection for astronauts and mission assets against hazards like space radiation, micrometeorite impacts, rocket plumes, moonquakes, extreme thermal variations, and lunar dust. In Phase I, the technology demonstrated significant advancements, achieving 165 times the compressive strength of untreated regolith. A prototype surfacing apparatus was validated in DT-VAC by successfully paving and driving over a lunar road in a vacuum 900 times (720 meters). Building on these achievements, Phase II will focus on integrating and automating processes such as excavation, size sorting, and compaction into a scalable system capable of constructing 3D infrastructure on the lunar surface by augmenting the system with a Z-axis. The final prototype is envisioned as one or two implements that can be mounted on a lander, rover, or robotic arm. This technology also includes rigorous validation of materials under simulated lunar conditions, including cryogenic vacuum testing and thermal cycling to ensure the longevity and durability of the constructed infrastructure.