Current Status of Electrostatic Concentration Techniques for In-Situ Resource Utilization (ISRU) on the Moon

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For sustainable space development, it is vital that missions be able to apply In-Situ Resource Utilization (ISRU) methods. Among ISRU priorities is the production of oxygen from lunar regolith. Electrostatic separation as a pre-treatment for oxygen production from regolith, focusing on high-purity ilmenite extraction, is highly regarded for its adaptability to the Moon’s extreme conditions of low gravity and high vacuum. This paper investigates the potential of electrostatic separation processes on the Moon, exploring lunar environmental characteristics, lunar regolith simulant concepts, and current development. It also highlights global research trends on electrostatic separation in lunar environments and suggests relevant research topics for South Korea.