Preparing regolith-based composites for 3D printing is crucial in lunar base construction, leveraging costeffective and mechanically favorable materials for lunar construction by utilizing lunar regolith as the reinforcing phase. This research focuses on developing lunar regolith simulant as a matrix for 3D printing, which is crucial for in-situ resource utilization on the Moon. Resin-based composites, well-established in aerospace, are explored for their simple manufacturing and robust properties. The formulation involves simulated regolithbased polymer for direct ink writing printing. Rheological properties, including yield stress and plastic viscosity, are characterized across various cementite-sand ratios and printing temperatures. The relationship between extrudability, the time interval of the printing material and its rheological attributes is investigated. Quantitative assessment of material buildability employs three-dimensional scanning of the printed parts. Freeze-thaw cycle tests explore its temperature resilience. The influence of varying the printing infill rate on printing efficiency and the performance of the printed parts was assessed. It was found that modulating the printing infill rate affects the efficiency and performance of parts, with a 1:4 cementite-sand ratio and a 40 degrees C print temperature demonstrating optimal printing workability. These findings offer an efficient scheme for the automated production of regolithbased epoxy composites with precise structural, temperature-resistant, and favorable mechanical properties.
This ground-breaking research embarks on a journey to explore the transformative capabilities of Musa acuminata fiber-reinforced epoxy composites enriched with the enchanting prowess of alumina particles. The primary goal is to provide invaluable insights into the performance and potential applications of these eco-materials. Through the skilled craftsmanship of a compression molding machine, the composites were prepared meticulously and infused with different weight percentages of alumina particles (5%, 10%, and 15%) in the epoxy matrix, along with treated and untreated Musa acuminata fibers. TBA10 samples emerged as the champions among the compositions tested, showcasing the TES and FLS at an impressive 45.78 MPa and 76.97 MPa, respectively. On the other hand, the esteemed TBA15 sample exhibited an exceptional IMS of 60.8 kJ/m(2). SEM painted a mesmerizing picture, revealing a robust bond between the reinforcement and the medium. The incorporation of Al2O3 powder resulted in significantly reduced fiber pull-outs and voids, reinforcing the composite's structural integrity. Intriguingly, the water absorption behavior of the TBA10 sample stood out, boasting a mere 24% water absorption percentage, underscoring its remarkable water-defying capabilities. The degradation of lignin occurred at higher temperatures, approximately 415 C-degrees for untreated composites (UB) and 450 C-degrees for TBA15 composites. This enhancement in thermal stability testified to the profound impact of alumina infusion. By evaluating biodegradation behavior through soil burial tests, TBA15 showcased its resilience, exhibiting minimal strength loss, with only a 9.65% reduction in TES, 15% reduction in FLS, and 6.77% reduction in IMS.