Geology and Making Durable Construction Materials For The Moon and Mars - KYLA EDISON | EP.106

Space Explr

Kyla Edison is the Geology and Material Science Technician for the Pacific International Space Center for Exploration Systems (PISCES), a state-funded aerospace agency dedicated to promoting the aerospace industry in Hawaiʻi through economic development, workforce development, and applied research. Kyla attended the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo majoring in Geology with a dedicated focus on Planetary Geology and Volcanology. After graduating in 2016, she landed a job at PISCES as the Geology and Material Science Technician due to her experience working with basaltic lava and igneous petrology. Leading the Materials Science research at PISCES, Kyla is currently investigating if all basalt feedstocks—regardless of chemical and mineral abundances—are appropriate for making durable construction materials that may be applicable to future base settlements on the moon and Mars. Her research involves making tiles through a process known as sintering (similar to ceramics). The basalt feedstock is crushed, dried, sieved, and then fired in a kiln between 1,150 °C and 1,180 °C. Though Kyla’s project began by focusing on the moon and Mars, the results show significant promise for applications on Earth as well. The materials are relatively environmentally friendly and require no additives. All that is needed is basalt and an intensive energy source to provide heat. The next step for Kyla’s career will be attending the Colorado School of Mines Space Resources Ph.D. program in fall 2021 and hopes to expand upon her sintering capabilities more suited for lunar/martian environments.

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