Mechanical properties of Martian soil simulants for extraterrestrial applications
I am leading a diverse research group with students from Civil, Mechanical, Material Science & Engineering to study mechanical properties of Martian Soil simulants for extraterrestrial applications.
The importance of this research is in-depth knowledge of soil mechanics of Mars is necessary for creating effective and efficient transportation systems, landing systems, and mission site selection. This greatly increases the chance of success for missions of continued exploration and possible colonization.
We designed specimens made of a new material - a mix of martian soil with organic adhesive.
The mechanical properties of these specimens are studied through experiments and modeled using FEM and DEM.
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