University of Arkansas Researchers Awarded $750K to Improve Spacecraft Functionality for NASA

Min Zou is a distinguished professor of mechanical engineering at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville. (Photo provided)

NASA has awarded Min Zou, a distinguished professor of mechanical engineering at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville, just under $750,000 to develop bio-inspired surface textures that repel lunar dust.

The award comes as part of NASA’s Early Stage Innovations program. The project’s goal is to identify potential dust-repellant textures that can later be fabricated on adhesive tapes for easy application to various surfaces, such as habitat exteriors, doors and windows.

The research findings will guide the development of durable, low-maintenance surfaces for long-lasting lunar equipment, with broader applications for other dust-prone environments on Earth.

The ability to resist vacuum UV radiation and electrostatic environments might be incorporated into future textures as well.

Xiangbo Meng, an associate professor of mechanical engineering at the university, will serve as a co-principal investigator on the project. Zou said in a press release that she would be responsible for designing and fabricating the textures of the materials, while Meng will apply thin, hard coatings through atomic layer deposition to protect them.

Zou will also evaluate the durability and dust repellency of the materials in an environment that simulates lunar conditions.

Lunar dust, a fine, glassy material that can be several inches thick on the surface of the Moon, is known to be abrasive and electrostatically charged. The dust adheres to surfaces, penetrates seals, clogs mechanisms and contributes to material degradation, undermining the longevity and functionality of spacecraft, habitats and equipment operating on the Moon.

The release stated that lunar dust was a significant challenge during the Apollo missions, as it compromised equipment performance and posed health risks to astronauts. Tracked inside on suits and gear, the dust became airborne, leading to respiratory and eye irritation.

In their grant proposal, the researchers state that “by ensuring critical equipment remains functional and durable in harsh lunar conditions, we aim to make space science, travel and exploration more effective, affordable and sustainable.”

Zou and Meng will study bio-inspired surfaces like lotus leaves, which are known to be self-cleaning by repelling water and dirt; the skin of sandfish lizards, whose scalped scales minimize friction in sandy environments and prevent sand particles from sticking; and sea shells, whose layered structures contain both hard and soft materials that combine to increase durability.

By designing and fabricating the new textures, Zou’s team aims to significantly reduce dust adhesion, ultimately enhancing the performance and durability of lunar infrastructure.

Zou is a leader in nanoscale surface engineering, nanomechanics and nanotribology. Tribology is the study of friction, wear, lubrication and associated technologies. It involves exploring, understanding and improving the interaction of surfaces in relative motion. Zou was recently named a fellow in the National Academy of Inventors.