A method for modularly constructing a living module in the form of a Martian pyramid structure

Abstract

This application relates to the technical field of construction methods, and particularly to a method for modularly constructing a living module in the shape of a pyramid on Mars, which includes steps such as grooving Martian bricks, preparing sulfur-based connectors, placing and bonding bricks, modular assembly, and internal treatment. Bricks with a compressive strength of 22 MPa and sulfur-based mortar with a bonding strength of ≥1.2 MPa are prepared from in-situ resources on Mars. The influence of sulfur sublimation is reduced through notch design, and the stability of the structure under Martian gravity and negative pressure is verified using finite element simulation. This application can achieve modular construction with low maintenance and high adaptability, providing an efficient and sustainable technical solution for long-term residence in the extreme environment on Mars.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of construction technology, and more particularly, to a method for modularly constructing a living module in the form of a pyramid structure on Mars. Background Art

[0002] The atmospheric pressure on Mars is only 636 Pa, and the temperature fluctuates in the range from -114°C to 20°C. Such a low-pressure and low-temperature environment makes it difficult to directly apply traditional building materials and construction methods. In addition, the average distance between Mars and the Earth is about 225 million kilometers, and Earth-based resupply is not only expensive but also inefficient. Therefore, how to utilize in-situ resources on Mars for autonomous construction has become a key problem to be solved urgently.

[0003] In-situ resource utilization (ISRU) is considered a core strategy for reducing the cost of space exploration and improving construction efficiency. The Martian regolith is rich in mineral components such as SiO2 and can be used as a potential source of building materials. However, traditional concrete requires liquid water for hydration reactions, and the presence of liquid water on Mars is extremely limited, which makes anhydrous adhesives such as sulfur concrete a more attractive option. Sulfur is abundant on Mars and can be combined with Martian soil after heating and melting to form a building material with high compressive strength. However, sulfur materials are prone to sublimation in a low-pressure environment and exhibit significant thermal expansion and contraction characteristics at extreme temperatures, which may lead to structural cracking and a decrease in durability. In addition, the brittleness of sulfur-based materials makes them more vulnerable under dynamic loads or impact conditions, which poses a threat to the long-term structural stability.

[0004] Some studies have proposed methods for constructing a Martian base using 3D printing technology or fused deposition methods, such as the basalt thin plate assembled dome structure proposed by Kading and the regolith bonding technology using a magnesium chloride saturated solution as an adhesive proposed by Cesaretti. Although these methods demonstrate feasibility to a certain extent, they still face problems such as complex material forming processes and insufficient adaptability of construction equipment. At the same time, existing technologies often closely combine the manufacturing of structural elements with the construction process, resulting in increased operation and maintenance difficulties and making it difficult to meet the requirements of fully automated construction in the Martian environment. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Aiming at the defects in existing Martian construction technologies, such as complex material preparation, low construction efficiency, and insufficient long-term durability, the present invention proposes a method for modularly constructing a living module in the form of a pyramid structure on Mars. The method combines in-situ resource utilization (ISRU) technology on Mars with intelligent construction means to achieve efficient and reliable modular construction in the extreme environment of Mars.

[0006] The present invention adopts the following solutions:

[0007] A method for modularly constructing a Martian pyramid-structured living module, comprising the following steps:

[0008] S1. Grooving: Applying strong pressure to a simulated Martian soil and water ice mixture to melt the ice into liquid water to drive a hydration reaction, and forming Martian bricks after static curing. Cutting the connection interfaces of the prepared Martian bricks, and the cutting forms include straight cuts or cross cuts;

[0009] S2. Preparing sulfur-based connectors: Mixing sulfur and simulated Martian soil in a set ratio, heating to a molten state, stirring evenly, pouring into a mold with a specific shape, demolding after cooling and curing to form sulfur-based connectors;

[0010] S3. Laying: Laying the Martian bricks layer by layer, and leaving gaps for inserting sulfur-based connectors between adjacent Martian bricks;

[0011] S4. Bonding: Heating the sulfur-based connectors to a surface molten state and inserting them into the reserved gaps to complete the bonding between Martian bricks;

[0012] S5. Assembling: Stacking the bonded Martian bricks in a pyramid shape to form small-sized pyramid modules;

[0013] S6. Modular construction: Using automated machinery to splice and assemble the prefabricated small-sized pyramid modules to form a preset pyramid structure;

[0014] S7. Interior treatment: Smoothing the inner wall and installing a heat insulation layer and a life support system to complete the living module.

[0015] Further, in step S1, the compressive strength of the Martian bricks is not less than 22 MPa, and the density is 2.51 .

[0016] Further, the cutting shape of the Martian bricks is determined according to their positions and stress conditions in the structure. Among them, straight cuts are set in a unidirectional stress environment, and cross cuts are set in a multi-directional stress environment.

[0017] Further, in step S2, the mixing ratio of the simulated Martian soil to sulfur is 0:1 to 1:4.

[0018] Further, the bonding strength of the sulfur-based connectors is not less than 1.2 MPa, and their shapes are designed according to the cutting forms of the Martian bricks to achieve close fitting.

[0019] Further, in step S3, ice bodies are placed inside the structure as temporary supports during the construction process, and the Martian bricks are laid around the ice bodies. After the structure is completed, the ice bodies are evaporated by controlled heating to form a living space.

[0020] Further, in step S4, only part of the sulfur-based connector is exposed to the external environment during the masonry process, and the surface of the sulfur-based connector is locally melted to improve the bonding strength.

[0021] Further, in step S5, a precast beam is also formed, and the precast beam is suitable for splicing with the pyramid module.

[0022] Further, in step S7, the controlled heating method includes introducing a heat source or utilizing the natural temperature change on Mars, and by controlling the heating rate, it ensures that the ice body slowly evaporates without causing damage to the structure.

[0023] Further, in step S7, the inner wall smoothing treatment is carried out by mechanical grinding, the finally installed heat insulation layer is made of a high-reflectivity material, and the life support system includes oxygen supply and temperature and humidity regulation function modules.

[0024] Beneficial effects:

[0025] First, through the in-situ resource utilization technology on Mars, the demand for transporting building materials from the Earth is significantly reduced, and the mission cost is lowered.

[0026] Second, the modular construction method combined with intelligent construction technology improves the construction efficiency and reduces manual intervention, providing a sustainable solution for the construction of a Mars base.

[0027] Third, the combined action of the notch design and the sulfur-based composite material modification scheme significantly improves the long-term durability and seismic performance of the structure.

[0028] Fourth, the finite element simulation verifies the reliability of the pyramid structure in the extreme environment on Mars, providing a solid technical guarantee for long-term residence on Mars in the future. Description of the drawings

[0029] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the pyramid module structure of a method for modularly constructing a living cabin with a pyramid structure on Mars according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0030] Figure 2 is an internal perspective schematic diagram when the pyramid modules of a method for modularly constructing a living cabin with a pyramid structure on Mars according to an embodiment of the present invention are lapped;

[0031] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the assembled components of the pyramid module of a method for modularly constructing a living cabin with a pyramid structure on Mars according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0032] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the interface notch of the Mars brick, the sulfur-based connector, and the connection between the two of a method for modularly constructing a living cabin with a pyramid structure on Mars according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0033] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of the modular construction of a modular Mars pyramid structure living module according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0034] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the finite element model of a method for modularly constructing a Mars pyramid structure living module according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0035] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of the principal tensile stress of the finite element model of a method for modularly constructing a Mars pyramid structure living module according to an embodiment of the present invention under two working conditions;

[0036] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of the principal compressive stress of the finite element model of a method for modularly constructing a Mars pyramid structure living module according to an embodiment of the present invention under two working conditions; Detailed implementation manners

[0037] Combined with Figures 1 to 8 shown in the figure, this embodiment provides a method for modularly constructing a Mars pyramid structure living module. The technical solution in this embodiment realizes the modular construction of the Mars pyramid structure living module through multiple steps, including key links such as Mars brick preparation, sulfur-based connector design, modular assembly, and internal treatment.

[0038] Combined with Figures 1 to 5 shown in the figure Figure 2 the masonry bricks refer to the prepared Mars bricks, and the ice refers to the ice body. Figure 5 the small modules in refer to the small-sized pyramid modules. First, in the S1 grooving step, the preparation of Mars bricks is the basis of the whole process. Mars bricks can be made by pressing simulated Mars soil or future real Mars soil and water ice. Specifically, Mars bricks are prepared using the existing simulated Mars soil of JSC Mars-1 under the conditions of a 7-day age, a forming pressure of 40 MPa, a curing temperature of 20 °C, a SiO2 particle size of 200 nm, and a moisture content of 35%. Under these conditions, the compressive strength of the precast brick body can reach 22 MPa, and the density is about 2.51 . In actual operation, after taking out the cured Mars bricks, whether to perform notch treatment is selected according to the specific working conditions. The notch forms of Mars bricks include single-notch and cross-notch, or no notch. The single-notch is suitable for unidirectional stress environments, while the cross-notch is suitable for multi-directional stress environments. The design of the notch not only enhances the mechanical interlocking performance between Mars bricks but also reduces the area of sulfur-based connectors exposed to the external environment, thus inhibiting the occurrence of sulfur sublimation. By adjusting the notch depth and width, ensure that the notch can effectively embed the sulfur-based connector and form a tight fit.

[0039] In the step of preparing the sulfur-based connector in S2, sulfur and simulated Martian soil are mixed in a set ratio and heated to a molten state. After stirring evenly, it is poured into a mold with a specific shape. The mixing ratio of the simulated Martian soil to sulfur is 0:1 to 1:4. The specific ratio is adjusted according to the test data to optimize the bonding performance and thermal stability, and the preferred ratio is 1:4. The shape of the mold is designed according to the cut form of the Martian brick to ensure that the sulfur-based connector can be closely fitted without additional adjustment after insertion. The sulfur-based connector formed after cooling and solidification and demolding has a bonding strength of not less than 1.2 MPa, meeting the comprehensive stress requirements in the Martian environment. The shape of the sulfur-based connector can be strip-shaped, columnar or other geometric bodies adapted to the cut form.

[0040] Next, in the placement step of S3, the Martian bricks are placed layer by layer, and a gap for inserting the sulfur-based connector is reserved between the Martian bricks. During the construction process, ice blocks are placed inside the structure as temporary supports. The Martian bricks are laid around the ice blocks, and after the structure is completed, the ice blocks are evaporated by controlled heating to form a living space. This construction method avoids the additional transportation requirements of traditional formwork support materials and simplifies the construction process. The size and position of the ice blocks are determined according to the design parameters of the pyramid structure to ensure that they can provide sufficient support force during the construction process.

[0041] In the bonding step of S4, the sulfur-based connector is heated to a surface molten state and then inserted into the reserved gap to complete the bonding between the Martian bricks. The sulfur-based connector is only partially exposed to the external environment during the masonry process, effectively inhibiting the sublimation of sulfur. By locally melting the surface of the connector, not only the bonding strength is improved, but also the material loss is reduced. In actual operation, existing automated equipment can be used to control the heating temperature and time to ensure the best bonding effect when the sulfur-based connector is inserted.

[0042] In the assembly step of S5, the bonded Martian bricks are stacked in a pyramid shape to form small-sized pyramid modules. In addition to prefabricated small pyramid modules, other structural components such as beams can also be prefabricated. These components can be spliced with the small pyramid modules to further enhance the flexibility and expansion ability of the overall structure. The fixed base is used to enhance the overall stability of the module and prevent displacement during Martian seismic activities.

[0043] In the modular construction step of S6, the prefabricated small-sized pyramid modules are transported to the predetermined location by automated machinery and assembled by splicing to form a larger pyramid structure. Existing automated machinery can accurately position and efficiently complete the module splicing task. By separating the manufacturing and construction processes through the modular construction method and combining automated machinery for efficient assembly, the construction efficiency is significantly improved and the maintenance cost is reduced.

[0044] Finally, in the internal processing steps of S7, a controlled heating method is adopted to evaporate the ice inside the structure, while smoothing the inner wall and installing a thermal insulation layer and a life support system. The controlled heating method includes introducing a heat source or utilizing the natural temperature changes on Mars. By precisely controlling the heating rate, it is ensured that the ice evaporates slowly without damaging the structure. In addition, the inner wall is smoothed by mechanical grinding, and finally, a thermal insulation layer and a life support system are installed to meet the requirements of long-term residence. The thermal insulation layer is made of high-reflectivity materials, which can effectively reduce heat loss; the life support system includes existing functional modules such as oxygen supply, temperature and humidity regulation, etc., to ensure that the environment inside the habitable module is suitable for human survival.

[0045] Combined Figures 6 to 8 As shown, based on the structural design scheme, a refined finite element model is constructed to simulate the behavior of the Martian pyramid-shaped habitat under the unique conditions on Mars. This model specifically studies the effects of Martian gravity (about 3.71 m / ) and the combined stresses generated by negative pressure and gravity on the structural performance. The density of the Martian bricks used in the model is determined by the hydrostatic weighing method, and the average value of the measurements of five samples is taken, with an average density of 2.51 . The main objective of this model is to provide a comprehensive analysis of the construction and operation phases, aiming to develop a habitat that is not only resilient but also sustainable in the Martian environment.

[0046] This finite element model aims to accurately predict the load-bearing capacity of the pyramid structure using Martian bricks, taking into account various stress-strain relationships and interface bond strengths. The Martian bricks are produced under a forming pressure of 40 MPa, and their compressive strength is approximately 22 MPa. Based on the bonding tests, a minimum bond strength of 1.2 MPa is selected to represent the fracture strength of the sulfur-based mortar. 65 solid elements with specific stress-strain curves are used to simulate the compression behavior of the Martian bricks. It is expected that interface cracking will occur when the principal tensile stress reaches the bond strength of 1.2 MPa.

[0047] Based on geometric and material symmetry, the construction of the half-model of the pyramid structure has been completed. Figure 6 (a) shows the geometric structure of the first four layers of the pyramid, where the width b and length l of each brick are 1 meter, the height of each layer is 3 meters, and the thickness of the top layer is 0.3 meters. During on-site construction, small masonry units can be assembled into 1 cubic meter standard units through the sulfur bonding process. As Figure 6 (b) shows, the implementation of symmetric boundary conditions and the fixed base are crucial for ensuring the accuracy of the model. In the analysis of the construction stage, a nonlinear solution is applied to adapt to the gravitational environment on Mars. In addition, during the operation stage, this gravity is combined with a negative pressure of 101.3 kPa, as Figure 6 (c) shows.

[0048] AsFigures 7 - 8 As shown, the stress nephogram reveals the stress distribution characteristics of the structure in two stages. Specifically, in the construction stage, the maximum principal tensile stress is approximately 0.04 MPa, while the maximum principal compressive stress reaches about 0.13 MPa. In the operation stage, these values gradually increase to a maximum principal tensile stress of 1.15 MPa and a maximum principal compressive stress of 0.59 MPa. It should be noted that the maximum principal tensile stress of 1.15 MPa is concentrated at the corner of the second floor, and the interface strength of 1.2 MPa provided by sulfur bonding can fully cover this stress peak, demonstrating the feasibility of this structure to resist Martian gravity and internal negative pressure.

[0049] The simulation results show that the proposed bricks and adhesives have high application potential in constructing an internal space of 4×4 meters. The internal net height of 3 meters can meet the requirements of the standard living space on Earth. In addition, the pyramid modules can be modularly expanded to create larger structures, thus demonstrating the feasibility and good prospects of this construction technology for future Martian applications.

[0050] In this embodiment, when constructing a pyramid-shaped structure on Mars, the location is selected at a stable and geologically reasonable position, and then automatic equipment is used to level and compact the simulated Martian soil to create a solid and reliable foundation. In terms of material innovation, the simulated Martian soil cleverly uses molten sulfur as an adhesive. This process overcomes the problem of water shortage and ensures durability under the harsh conditions on Mars. Next is the construction of the pyramid base. The bricks are laid to form a wide and stable foundation that can evenly distribute the load. Sulfur-based connectors, whether pure sulfur-based connectors or sulfur-based connectors mixed with simulated Martian soil or its components, can replace traditional cement, which is an efficient binder. On this basis, the structure is gradually assembled into a single-layer pyramid module with inclined sides and a wide base, using the ice bodies inside Mars cut into set shapes as temporary supports to enhance stability during the bricklaying process. Larger structural elements (such as beams) can be prefabricated using larger molds, or multiple smaller bricks can be bonded together to form the necessary structural components. Then, this modular construction method is repeatedly applied to build a larger pyramid-shaped building. Finally, by controlling heating, the internal ice is systematically evaporated to reveal the internal space, and then it is inspected and improved by installing insulation and life support systems, and finally a habitable and structurally reasonable Martian masonry structure is completed.

[0051] The technical solution of the present invention provides a practical method for constructing a living module in the form of a Martian pyramid by elaborating on the preparation of Martian bricks, the design of sulfur-based connectors, the modular construction process, and finite element simulation verification. The schematic diagram of the internal treatment and life support system installation after the completion of the pyramid structure demonstrates the final outcome. The method not only solves the key problems in Martian construction but also lays an important foundation for deep space exploration and extraterrestrial immigration. By significantly reducing the need to transport construction materials from Earth through in-situ resource utilization technology on Mars, the mission cost is lowered. The modular construction method combined with intelligent construction technology improves construction efficiency and reduces human intervention, providing a sustainable solution for the construction of a Martian base. The incision design and the sulfur-based composite material modification scheme jointly act to significantly enhance the long-term durability and seismic resistance of the structure. Finite element simulation verifies the reliability of the pyramid structure in the extreme Martian environment, providing a solid technical guarantee for long-term residence on Mars in the future.

[0052] It should be understood that the above are only the preferred embodiments of the present invention, and the protection scope of the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments. All technical solutions falling within the scope of the inventive concept belong to the protection scope of the present invention.

[0053] The above introduction to the drawings used in the embodiments only shows some embodiments of the present invention and should not be regarded as a limitation of the scope. For those of ordinary skill in the art, without creative efforts, other related drawings can be obtained based on these drawings.

Claims

1. A method for modularly constructing a living module in the form of a pyramid structure on Mars, characterized in that, It includes the following steps: S1. Grooving: Apply strong pressure to the simulated Martian soil and water-ice mixture to melt the ice into liquid water to drive the hydration reaction. After static curing, Martian bricks are formed. Cut the connection interfaces of the prepared Martian bricks. The cut forms include straight cuts or cross cuts; S2. Prepare sulfur-based connectors: Mix sulfur and simulated Martian soil in a set ratio and heat to a molten state. After stirring evenly, pour it into a mold with a specific shape. After cooling and solidifying, demold to form sulfur-based connectors; S3. Placement: Place the Martian bricks layer by layer, and leave a gap for inserting sulfur-based connectors between adjacent Martian bricks; S4. Bonding: Heat the sulfur-based connectors to a surface molten state and insert them into the reserved gaps to complete the bonding between Martian bricks; S5. Assembly: Stack the bonded Martian bricks in a pyramid shape to form a small-sized pyramid module; S6. Modular construction: Use automated machinery to splice and assemble the prefabricated small-sized pyramid modules to form a preset pyramid structure; S7. Interior treatment: Smooth the inner wall and install a heat insulation layer and a life support system to build a living cabin.

2. The method for modularly constructing a living module in the form of a Martian pyramid structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, In step S1, the compressive strength of the Martian bricks is not less than 22 MPa, and the density is 2.51 .

3. The method for modularly constructing a living module in the form of a Martian pyramid structure according to claim 2, characterized in that, The cut shape of the Martian bricks is determined according to their positions and stress conditions in the structure. Among them, straight cuts are set in a unidirectional stress environment, and cross cuts are set in a multi-directional stress environment.

4. The method for modularly constructing a living module in the form of a Martian pyramid structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, In step S2, the mixing ratio of the simulated Martian soil to sulfur is 0:1 to 1:

4.

5. The method for modularly constructing a living module in the form of a Martian pyramid structure according to claim 4, characterized in that The bonding strength of the sulfur-based connectors is not less than 1.2 MPa, and their shapes are designed according to the cut forms of the Martian bricks to achieve close fitting.

6. The method for modularly constructing a living module in the form of a Martian pyramid structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, In step S3, ice bodies are placed inside the structure as temporary supports during the construction process. The Martian bricks are laid around the ice bodies. After the structure is completed, the ice bodies are evaporated by controlled heating to form a living space.

7. The method for modularly constructing a living module in the form of a Martian pyramid structure as claimed in claim 1, wherein In step S4, only part of the sulfur-based connectors are exposed to the external environment during the masonry process. The surface of the sulfur-based connectors is locally melted to improve the bonding strength.

8. The method for modularly constructing a living module in the form of a Martian pyramid structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, In step S5, precast beams are also formed, and the precast beams are suitable for splicing with the pyramid modules.

9. The method for modularly constructing a living module in the form of a Martian pyramid structure according to claim 6, characterized in that, In step S7, the controlled heating method includes introducing a heat source or using the natural temperature change on Mars. By controlling the heating rate, it is ensured that the ice bodies evaporate slowly without damaging the structure.

10. The method for modularly constructing a living module in the form of a Martian pyramid structure according to claim 1, wherein, In step S7, the inner wall smoothing treatment is carried out by mechanical grinding. The finally installed heat insulation layer is made of a high reflectivity material. The life support system includes oxygen supply and temperature and humidity regulation function modules.

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