Flemish engineer develops technique to build bricks from moondust
A Flemish engineer has developed a groundbreaking technique to create bricks from moondust, a potential game-changer for building bases and infrastructure on the lunar surface, VRT reports. The innovative bricks, which are strong, cost-effective and radiation-resistant, could enable long-term habitation on the moon.
At the European Space Agency’s (ESA) astronaut centre in Cologne, Bram Verbruggen showcased his work, where a Lego-shaped block made of simulated moondust and plastic emerged from a 3D printer in just eight minutes.
Over the past two years, he and his colleagues have been exploring ways to repurpose lunar materials for construction. “The idea is to use as much material from the moon itself as possible,” Verbruggen said. “This could include smaller parts for repairs or sturdy bricks to build a moon base.”
Extremely durable
The bricks consist of 90-95 per cent moondust mixed with 5-10 per cent plastic. After being baked in an oven, they become durable enough to withstand extreme conditions, including the force of a rocket engine.
“We could use these bricks to build a stable platform for rockets, preventing them from tipping over and minimising moondust dispersion, which can damage equipment,” Verbruggen told VRT. He added that roads constructed from these bricks could protect lunar vehicles from sharp moondust, which has posed challenges since the Apollo missions.
"The best technique will eventually prevail"
Moondust is notoriously problematic. Its sharp particles can damage spacesuits, electronics and even human lungs. Verbruggen’s work is part of a broader effort, with at least 20 research groups globally vying to perfect lunar brick-making technology.
“The best technique will eventually prevail. I hope it’s ours, but I’m already honoured to have this opportunity through Belspo and ESA,” he said.
Presence on the moon
The development aligns with the philosophy behind new lunar missions, including those of the US and ESA, which aim to establish a permanent presence on the moon.
Belgian astronaut Frank De Winne, head of the ESA astronaut centre, noted the significance of Verbruggen’s research. “Transportation accounts for 95 per cent of the cost of lunar missions. Every kilogram we can source or reuse on-site saves significantly,” he said.
“This is why investing in this technology and testing it in simulated lunar environments is crucial. Building a small moon brick in a lab is one thing, but doing it on the moon is an entirely different challenge.”
#FlandersNewsService | The LUNA research facility in Cologne, Germany © PHOTO SEPP SPIEGL / ROPI VIA ZUMA PRESS
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