Materials scientists from Nanjing University have proposed an “extraterrestrial photosynthesis” strategy for the needs of
The researchers analyzed the lunar soil,delivered by the Chinese Chang'e-5 spacecraft and found compounds rich in iron and titanium in the sample. These substances, as conceived by scientists, can be used as catalysts for the production of oxygen.
Scientists suggest using lunar soil inas a catalyst in the electrolysis of water collected on the Moon and in the air exhaled by astronauts. As a result of this process, oxygen and hydrogen will be obtained.
Image: Yingfang Yao et al., Joule
In the second stage, carbon dioxide exhaledthe inhabitants of the base can combine with hydrogen in the process of hydrogenation, which is also supported by catalysts from the soil. The process produces hydrocarbons such as methane, which can be used as fuel.
The researchers note that the whole process is basedon the use of sunlight and does not require other energy costs. At the same time, as a result of "photosynthesis", the production of oxygen, water and fuel, which are necessary for life on the lunar base, is ensured.
“We use the available resources of the environmentenvironment to minimize rocket payloads, and our strategy proposes a scenario for a sustainable and accessible extraterrestrial habitat,” says Yingfan Yao, co-author of the study.
The authors of the work note that the catalyticThe efficiency of lunar soil is less than that of catalysts available on Earth, but scientists are working to create an improved modification. For example, by melting lunar soil into a nanostructured material with high entropy.
The scientists plan to test the system in space, likely during China's future lunar missions.
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