Title: A Lint Roller For Space: Combatting the unique challenges of lunar regolith

Author (Table Talk): Mary Pat Reiter, University of Maryland

Abstract:

Due to the differences between the moon's atmosphere and Earth's, lunar regolith particles behave and are shaped very differently from soil particles on Earth. Their abrasive nature and barb-like shape means that they become attached to fabrics and can damage sensitive surfaces such as optical equipment. The high silica content may contribute to irritation and even silicosis when inhaled into astronauts respiratory tracts, causing something known as lunar hay fever. Lunar regolith remains a primary concern to address for mission success, especially in the expedited plans for building a Moon base. To combat this issue, we designed the gecko roller: a device that combines a terrestrial lint roller with an elastomeric dry adhesive with micron-sized wedges to clean surfaces of regolith. These wedges are modeled after the fine structures called setae on gecko toe pads which allow geckos to attach and detach from many surfaces. To permit re-usability of the gecko roller, we built a rotational cleaning device prototype to detach the regolith particles via centrifugal force at speeds up to 9,600 RPM. Results from testing with Lunar Highlands Simulant Type 1 (LHS-1) will be presented as will a handheld demonstration of the roller prototype.