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Description
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Abstract Effective beneficiation of lunar regolith for in situ resource utilisation (ISRU) requires size classification methods compatible with vacuum environments, where fluid-based systems are impractical. This study evaluates vibrational segregation as a dry alternative, using sealed-vial excitation under Earth gravity. We test Apollo sample 15601 alongside three lunar simulants (JSC-1, LMS-1, TUBS-M) across multiple vibrational conditions. Micro-CT imaging, Rosin–Rammler modelling, and Jensen–Shannon Divergence analysis quantify internal structure and simulant similarity. Mechanistic models of aerodynamic drag and bulk mobilisation clarify the roles of fines, cohesion, and confinement. A15601 develops a stable three-layer structure driven by fines immobilisation and coarse particle lofting. LMS-1 exhibits similar layering but weaker compaction. TUBS-M provides the closest statistical match, while JSC-1 segregates efficiently but less representatively. Particle size distribution breadth emerges as the primary driver of compaction and stratification. Though tested under terrestrial conditions, the findings offer a framework for evaluating simulants and designing passive ISRU separation systems. (2025-10-14)
***This entry has been automatically imported via OpenAlex by LIST harvest scripts. Please refer to https://doi.org/10.1007/s44461-025-00004-5 for the original and latest version of the publication*** (2026-07-01)
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