Simulating Radiation and Thermal Cycling Effects in Lunar Construction Materials

The establishment of long-term human presence on the Moon requires infrastructure capable of operating under persistent radiation exposure and extreme thermal conditions while minimising dependence on Earth-supplied materials. Radiation-induced degradation of construction materials poses a critical risk to the safety, durability, and sustainability of lunar habitats, particularly those based on in situ resource utilisation (ISRU). Understanding the degradation of lunar construction materials under combined radiation and thermal conditions is therefore essential for the development of sustainable lunar infrastructure.

This work investigates the response of ISRU-relevant materials to simulated lunar environmental conditions using a combined modelling and experimental approach. Ion irradiation experiments and thermal cycling studies are being conducted to reproduce key aspects of the lunar surface environment and to assess damage in materials including advanced polymers, metallic composites, aerogels, and lunar regolith analogues. Post-exposure characterisation using spectroscopy and microscopy is employed to evaluate chemical, structural, and mechanical degradation.

In parallel, atomistic and multi-scale modelling approaches are being developed to investigate thermally induced structural evolution in these materials. The modelling framework aims to connect microscale damage processes with macroscopic material degradation relevant to long-term lunar operations.

This research builds on previous atomistic studies of space materials under lunar-like conditions, extending them through experimental validation and the investigation of regolith-derived materials as both structural resources and passive radiation shielding elements. The results will contribute to improved material selection and mitigation strategies for future ISRU-based lunar habitats.