Cold spray deposition of lunar regolith simulant-containing coatings for space repair applications
US12065743B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 5, 2023 |
| Grant date | Aug 20, 2024 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 5, 2043 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB05B7/1486
- WIPO fieldChemical engineering
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
Provided is a method of repairing structures on the Lunar surface using Lunar regolith containing metallic coatings. An ultra-portable and low-pressure cold spray system is utilized to consolidate coatings. This system can be easily transported to space, reducing the payload. Lunar regolith is added to the metal powder before cold spray deposition. Lunar regolith increases the tampering effect during cold spray deposition, thereby causing severe plastic deformation of the metal powders and providing a coating with high quality and minimum porosity. The presence of Lunar regolith increases the hardness of the coating and improves wear properties. Coatings on a large area can be made rapidly without much surface preparation. These coatings can be rapidly applied to various Lunar structures to repair, reinforce, and restore (RRR) functionality and performance in the Lunar environment.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.