LDC 2023 Topic: Astrometallurgy and its relevance for future lunar settlements
Abstract:
This talk will cover an overview of astrometallurgical processes for lunar ISRU applications. We will discuss some of the challenges inherent in resource extraction in space, what the most promising technologies will be, and some ideas on what sorts of research is required to realise true ISRU on the Moon.
Bio:
Matt began his career as an extractive metallurgist working in the base metal mining industry both in the Australian desert and all the way up in the Canadian arctic. With a taste for operations in extreme conditions Matt started a PhD in the field of astrometallurgy which he completed in 2023. Matt now works with CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency, in the space In-Situ Resource Utilisation team specialising in resource extraction in space.