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All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
DOE OSTI2025

Clear as mud redefined: Tunable transparent mineral scaffolds for visualizing microbial processes below ground

Microbes inhabiting complex porous microenvironments in sediments and aquifers catalyze reactions that are critical to global biogeochemical cycles and ecosystem health. However, the opacity and complexity of porous sediment and rock matrices have considerably hindered the study of microbial processes occurring within these habitats. Here, we generated microbially compatible, optically transparent mineral scaffolds to visualize and investigate microbial colonization and activities occurring in these environments, in laboratory settings and in situ. Using inexpensive synthetic cryolite mineral, we produced optically transparent scaffolds mimicking the complex 3D structure of sediments and rocks by adapting a suspension-based, freeze-casting technique commonly used in materials science. Fine-tuning of parameters, such as freezing rate and choice of solvent, provided full control of pore size and architecture. The combined effects of scaffold porosity and structure on the movement of microbe-sized particles, tested using velocity tracking of fluorescent beads, showed diverse yet reproducible behaviors. The scaffolds we produced are compatible with epifluorescence microscopy, allowing the fluorescence-based identification of colonizing microbes by DNA-based staining and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) to depths of 100 µm. Additionally, Raman spectroscopy analysis indicates minimal background signal in regions used for measuring deuterium and 13 C enrichment in microorganisms, highlighting the potential to directly couple D 2 O or 13 C stable isotope probing and Raman-FISH for quantifying microbial activity at the single-cell level. To demonstrate the relevance of cryolite scaffolds for environmental field studies, we visualized their colonization by diverse microorganisms within rhizosphere sediments of a coastal seagrass plant using epifluorescence microscopy. The tool presented here enables highly resolved, spatially explicit, and multimodal investigations into the distribution, activities, and interactions of underground microbes typically obscured within opaque geological materials until now.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗
DOE OSTI2026

Effects of Dissolution Regimes on Flow Channelization and Solute Transport in 3D Fracture Networks: Insights From Graph‐Based Reactive Transport Modeling

We investigate how mineral dissolution reshapes flow pathways and solute transport in three‐dimensional discrete fracture networks using a computationally efficient graph‐based reactive transport model. The DFNs are inspired by field‐site observations of fractured carbonate and represent realistic connectivity and structural heterogeneity. Flow is simulated with the Reynolds equation, and dissolution follows first‐order kinetics with diffusive limitations captured through an effective mass‐transfer coefficient. By systematically varying two key dimensionless parameters, the effective Damköhler number (Da), governing reaction versus advection rates, and a transport parameter (Da), analogous to the Thiele modulus, distinct flow channelization regimes emerge: mildly channelized at low G, highly channelized at intermediate Da, and extreme wormhole formation at high Da and low G. Eulerian and Lagrangian analyses, including breakthrough curves, particle tortuosity, dispersivity, and flow channeling indicators quantitatively characterize the progression of dissolution‐driven network restructuring. Across all regimes, initial fracture heterogeneity persists. The results underscore how the interplay between this initial structure, advection, reaction, and diffusion critically shapes subsurface flow pathways, with implications for applications ranging from groundwater remediation to enhanced geothermal systems.

54 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES↗
NASA NTRS2019

A New Look at Aubrites: Investigating 3D Modal Mineralogy with X-Ray Computed Tomography

The aubrites (approximately 30 known meteorites) are a unique group of differentiated meteorites that formed on asteroids with oxygen fugacities (ƒO2) from approximately 2 to approximately 6 log units below the iron-wustite buffer. At these highly reduced conditions, elements deviate from the geochemical behavior exhibited at terrestrial ƒO2, forming FeO-poor silicates and exotic sulfides. While previous studies have described the petrology and 2D modal abundances of aubrites, this work investigates the 3D modal mineralogies of silicate, metal, and sulfide phases in aubrite samples, which are then compared to the available 2D data. In addition to 3D modal mineralogies, we have examined the geochemistry of fourteen aubrites, including mineral major-element compositions, bulk-rock compositions, and oxygen isotopic compositions to understand their formation and evolution at extreme ƒO2 conditions. We utilize X-ray computed tomography (XCT) to non-destructively analyze the distribution and abundances of mineral phases in aubrites and locate composite clasts of sulfide grains for future analytical study. In order to better constrain elemental behavior under reduced conditions, we specifically target minerals phases that comprise moderately volatile elements (i.e. oldhamite [CaS], caswellsilverite [NaCrS2] and djerfisherite [K6Na(Fe,Cu,Ni)25S26Cl]) as it has been shown that their geochemical behavior changes as a function of ƒO2. Currently, we have produced 3D scans of the Norton County aubrite. The results of the XCT data have allowed for the determination of the abundances of silicate groundmass (i.e., enstatite, forsterite, albite, and diopside), light (based on electron density) sulfides (i.e. alabandite [MnS] and daubréelite [FeCr2S4]), heavy (based on electron density) sulfides (i.e., troilite [FeS]), and Fe,Ni metal by segmenting a density histogram in Volume Graphics Studio software. XCT scans of additional aubrites are underway. By combining the 3D representation of the exotic phases found in aubrites with existing 2D characterizations, we are able to better determine modal abundances. By integrating 3D and 2D modal abundances and geochemistry, we can ultimately better constrain aubrite petrogenesis and elemental partitioning under reduced conditions. Furthermore, application of this new 3D approach offers the opportunity to identify and select clasts for future study prior to cutting the sample, which will minimize sample loss of this precious material.

Wilbur, Zoe↗
DOE OSTI2023

An innovative carbonated cementitious material and its printability and carbon mineralization capacity

The main goal of this research is to develop a carbonated cementitious material (CCMs) mix design and demonstrate its rapid stiffening for manufacturing 3D printed or precast elements for building construction (i.e., concrete with enhanced durability and CO 2 capture efficiency). The material development employs hydrated Ca(OH) 2 , and its distinct reaction with CO 2 to form CaCO 3 . Different formulations and additives including polymer materials enable the thermomechanical properties that give these CCMs 3D printability comparable with cement materials used for similar applications. Here, printable and castable CCM formulations were successfully developed and demonstrated to mineralize CO 2 to form up to 57% CaCO 3 .

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗
NASA NTRS2021

Petrology, Geochemistry, and Pairing of Lunar Meteorites from the Dominion Range

Introduction: During the 2018-2019 Antarctic Search for Meteorites (ANSMET) field season in the Dominion Range (DOM), 7 lunar meteorite stones were collected: DOM 18242 (15.1 g), DOM 18244 (25.1 g), DOM 18262 (6.8 g), DOM 18509 (16.5 g), DOM 18543 (13.6 g), DOM 18666 (45.9 g), and DOM 18678 (11.6 g). Here we present the initial results of electron microprobe and X-ray computed tomography (XCT) studies of these stones and look at the details of their petrography and mineral chemistry, as well as investigate possible pairing relationships, both with each other and with previously described lunar meteorites. Most of the work presented here is on the DOM 18509, 18543, and 18678 stones; subsamples of the other stones are in hand and similar measurements will be made on them by the time of the meeting. Methods: Textures in DOM 18509, DOM 18543, and DOM 18678 were characterized in 2D by optical microscopy, backscattered electron (BSE) imaging and elemental X-ray images on thin sections, as well as in 3D by X-ray computed tomography (XCT) on sample chips. Mineral compositions were assessed through a combination of wavelength dispersive spectroscopy EPMA (electron probe microanalysis) and x-ray mapping on the JEOL 8530 at NASA JSC. The bulk composition of all three meteorites was determined based on analyses of the fusion crust glass. XCT analyses were done on the Nikon XTH 320 at NASA JSC. ICP-MS data on bulk rock subsamples for each meteorite will be carried out in the near future. Results: The stones are all similar in macroscopic appearance with a dark aphanitic matrix hosting a variety of small- to medium-sized angular mineral and lithic fragments (often light colored in nature) [1,2]. Based on EPMA and XCT results, the three meteorites are polymict regolith breccias comprised of mineral, glass, and lithic clasts ranging up to several mm in length. Melt veins run through all three meteorite samples. Mineral clasts in all 3 stones are dominated by pyroxene and plagioclase (An82-96), with minor amounts of SiO2, olivine (Fo1-52), and FeTi-oxides. Pyroxene grains are mostly Fe-rich pigeonite and augite, and larger clasts are normally zoned and have fine exsolution lamellae. The lithic clasts in all stones consists of: (1) basalt clasts that contain zoned pyroxene, plagioclase laths, and ilmenite, with minor silica and Fe-rich olivine; (2) granulitic clasts; (3) anorthosite clasts; (4) Si-rich clasts that also contain ilmenite, troilite, high-Ca pyroxene, fayalite, and K-feldspar likely mesostasis from late stage basalts). All three meteorites contain glassy fusion crust that is highly vesicular, high in FeO and Al2O3 (15-17 wt% each), ferroan (Mg# of 23-24), and moderately rich in TiO2 (1.4-1.8 wt%). The composition of the fusion crust can serve as a proxy for the bulk meteorite composition and is identical within error for all three meteorites. Implications: The lithic and mineral clasts in all three stones are similar in clast population and assemblages as well as mineral chemistry. In addition, the fusion crust composition, a proxy for bulk composition, is within error of each other for all three stones. Thus DOM 18509, DOM 18543, and DOM 18678 are almost certainly paired. Based on similarities in macroscopic description as well as preliminary classification data [1,2], all 7 lunar stones from DOM are likely paired, though additional quantitative analyses are needed to confirm this. The presence of spherules and vesicular fusion crusts indicates that the DOM pairing group is a regolith breccia. The presence of basaltic and gabbroic clasts as well as more feldspathic materials, suggest that the regolith from which these meteorites formed contained a mixture of feldspathic highland material and mare material, suggesting a possible provenance near a marehighlands boundary. No evidence of KREEPy lithologies have been observed so far in these meteorites, however, future ICP-MS data on bulk rock chips for the stones will reveal any KREEP component if present. The DOM pairing group has many similarities to previously described lunar breccia meteorite MET 01210, however more detailed compositional data will be needed to make a definitive comparison.

R.A. Zeigler↗
DOE OSTI2022

3D Simulations of gas injection on callovo-oxfordian claystone assuming spatial heterogeneity and anisotropy

A series of gas injection tests on Callovo-Oxfordian (COx) claystone from the Bure underground research laboratory (URL) in France were carried out at the British Geological Survey (BGS). The tests were performed using a triaxial apparatus specifically designed to capture small volumetric strains induced by the injected gas flow and consequent material dilatancy. The long-duration experiments were monitored throughout. Measurements also included pressure, stresses (axial and radial stresses prescribed for each test stage), rate of gas inflow, gas outflow volume as well as pore-pressures observed at various points of the sample. A coupled hydro-gas-mechanical 3D numerical model has been developed to simulate the tests. Initial permeability is assumed heterogeneous throughout the specimen and embedded fractures are incorporated in the formulation. Gas pressure-induced deformations during the test lead to variations of permeability due to changes in matrix porosity and, especially, fracture aperture as well as fracture orientation due to material anisotropy. A programme of sensitivity analyses involving the variation of different aspects and parameters of the model contributes to a better understanding of the phenomena and highlights its complexity. The model is able to reproduce the observed behaviour of the tests.

58 GEOSCIENCES↗
NASA NTRS2014

Search for Fluid Inclusions in a Carbonaceous Chondrite Using a New X-Ray Micro-Tomography Technique Combined with FIB Sampling

Early solar system aqueous fluids are preserved in some H chondrites as aqueous fluid inclusions in halite (e.g., [1]). Although potential fluid inclusions are also expected in carbonaceous chondrites [2], they have not been surely confirmed. In order to search for these fluid inclusions, we have developped a new X-ray micro-tomography technique combined with FIB sampling and applied this techniqu to a carbanaceous chondrite. Experimental: A polished thin section of Sutter's Mill meteorite (CM) was observed with an optical microscope and FE-SEM (JEOL 7001F) for chosing mineral grains of carbonates (mainly calcite) and sulfides (FeS and ZnS) 20-50 microns in typical size, which may have aqueous fluid inclusions. Then, a "house" similar to a cube with a roof (20-30 microns in size) is sampled from the mineral grain by using FIB (FEI Quanta 200 3DS). Then, the house was atached to a thin W-needle by FIB and imaged by a SR-based imaging microtomography system with a Fresnel zone plate at beamline BL47XU, SPring-8, Japan. One sample was imaged at two X-ray energies, 7 and 8 keV, to identify mineral phases (dual-enegy microtomography: [3]). The size of voxel (pixel in 3D) was 50-80 nm, which gave the effective spatial resolution of approx. 200 nm. A terrestrial quartz sample with an aqueous fluid inclusion with a bubble was also examined as a test sample by the same method. Results and discussion: A fluid inclusion of 5-8 microns in quartz was clearly identified in a CT image. A bubble of approx. 4 microns was also identified as refraction contrast although the X-ray absorption difference between fluid and bubble is small. Volumes of the fluid and bubble were obtained from the 3D CT images. Fourteen grains of calcite, two grains of iron sulfide and one grain of (Zn,Fe)S were examined. Ten calcite, one iron sulfide and one (Zn,Fe)S grains have inclusions >1 micron in size (the maximum: approx. 5 microns). The shapes are spherical or irregular. Tiny inclusions (<1 micron) are also present in all the grains examined. These results show that mineral grains have more inclusions than expected from 2D observations. The X-ray absorption of the inclusions shows that they are not solid inclusions. No bubbles were observed inside, indicating that we cannot determine whether they are really aqueous fluids or merely voids. One calcite grain has an inclusion approx. 2 microns in size, which seems to have a bubble and a tiny solid daughter crystal inside (three-phase inclusion). As we know the exact 3D position of the inclusion, we will anlyze the inclusion by SIMS after freezing the sample as has been done for a halite sample [3]. The present technique is useful for finding small inclusions not only in carbonaceous chondrites but also for terrestrial materials.

Tsuchiyama, A.↗
DOE OSTI2024

Visualizing the Internal Nanocrystallinity of Calcite Due to Nonclassical Crystallization by 3D Coherent X–Ray Diffraction Imaging

The internal crystallinity of calcite is investigated for samples synthesized using two approaches: precipitation from solution and the ammonium carbonate diffusion method. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analyses reveal that the calcite products precipitated using both approaches have a well–defined rhombohedron shape, consistent with the euhedral crystal habit of the mineral. The internal structure of these calcite crystals is characterized using Bragg coherent diffraction imaging (BCDI) to determine the 3D electron density and the atomic displacement field. BCDI reconstructions for crystals synthesized using the ammonium carbonate diffusion approach have the expected euhedral shape, with internal strain fields and few internal defects. In contrast, the crystals synthesized by precipitation from solution have very complex external shapes and defective internal structures, presenting null electron density regions and pronounced displacement field distributions. These heterogeneities are interpreted as multiple crystalline domains, created by a nonclassical crystallization mechanism, where smaller nanoparticles coalescence into the final euhedral particles. The combined use of SEM, X–ray diffraction (XRD), and BCDI allows for structurally differentiating calcite crystals grown with different approaches, opening new opportunities to understand how grain boundaries and internal defects alter calcite reactivity.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗
NASA NTRS2017

Osiris-REx Spacecraft Current Status and Forward Plans

The NASA New Frontiers OSIRIS-REx spacecraft executed a flawless launch on September 8, 2016 to begin its 23-month journey to near-Earth asteroid (101955). The primary objective of the OSIRIS-REx mission is to collect and return to Earth a pristine sample of regolith from the asteroid surface. The sampling event will occur after a two-year period of remote sensing that will ensure a high probability of successful sampling of a region on the asteroid surface having high science value and within well-defined geological context. The OSIRIS-REx instrument payload includes three high-resolution cameras (OCAMS), a visible and near-infrared spectrometer (OVIRS), a thermal imaging spectrometer (OTES), an X-ray imaging spectrometer (REXIS), and a laser altimeter (OLA). As the spacecraft follows its nominal outbound-cruise trajectory, the propulsion, power, communications, and science instruments have undergone basic functional tests, with no major issues. Outbound cruise science investigations include a search for Earth Trojan asteroids as the spacecraft approaches the Sun-Earth L4 Lagrangian point in February 2017. Additional instrument checkouts and calibrations will be carried out during the Earth gravity assist maneuver in September 2017. During the Earth-moon flyby, visual and spectral images will be acquired to validate instrument command sequences planned for Bennu remote sensing. The asteroid Bennu remote sensing campaign will yield high resolution maps of the temperature and thermal inertia, distributions of major minerals and concentrations of organic matter across the asteroid surface. A high resolution 3d shape model including local surface slopes and a high-resolution gravity field will also be determined. Together, these data will be used to generate four separate maps that will be used to select the sampling site(s). The Safety map will identify hazardous and safe operational regions on the asteroid surface. The Deliverability map will quantify the accuracy with which the navigation team can deliver the spacecraft to and from specific sites on the asteroid surface. The Sampleability map quantifies the regolith properties, providing an estimation of how much material would be sampled at different points on the surface. The final Science Value map synthesizes the chemical, mineralogical, and geological, observations to identify the areas of the asteroid surface with the highest science value. Here, priority is given to organic, water-rich regions that have been minimally altered by surface processes. Asteroid surface samples will be acquired with a touch-and-go sample acquisition system (TAGSAM) that uses high purity pressurized N2 gas to mobilize regolith into a stainless steel canister. Although the mission requirement is to collect at least 60 g of material, tests of the TAGSAM routinely exceeded 300 g of simulant in micro-gravity tests. After acquiring the sample, the spacecraft will depart Bennu in 2021 to begin its return journey, with the sample return capsule landing at the Utah Test and Training Range on September 23, 2023. The OSIRIS-REx science team will carry out a series of detailed chemical, mineralogical, isotopic, and spectral studies that will be used to determine the origin and history of Bennu and to relate high spatial resolution sample studies to the global geological context from remote sensing. The outline of the sample analysis plan is described in a companion abstract.

Messenger, Scott↗
DOE OSTI2023

CO 2 /Brine/Rock Interactions in the Cedar Keys-Lawson Formation

It has been reported that among the various geologic storage options, deep saline aquifers have the largest estimated capacity for CO 2 storage. Obtaining knowledge of possible artificially geochemically induced changes to the permeability and porosity of host CO 2 storage deposits will enable us to gain insight on long-term reservoir behavior under CO 2 storage conditions. An experimental study of the interaction of CO 2 /brine/rock on saline formations was conducted in a static system under CO 2 storage conditions. Chemical interactions in the Cedar Keys-Lawson Formation carbonate during exposure to CO 2 and brine under sequestration conditions were studied. Samples were exposed to the simulated in-situ reaction conditions for one and six months. The samples were exposed to a model brine at 55 °C and CO 2 pressure of 23.8 MPa (3,500 psig). Computed tomography (CT), x-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM)-energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDS), brine composition, core porosity, and core permeability analyses were conducted prior to and after the exposure experiments. Preliminary permeability measurements obtained from the core samples showed changes after they were exposed to CO 2 -saturated brine for one and six months. This observation suggests that mineral dissolution and mineral precipitation could occur in the host deposit altering its characteristics for CO 2 storage over time. The 3D images of the pore space clearly illustrate the degree of dissolution that occurred during exposure. It is noted that the dissolution that occurred during the six-month exposure could have enhanced the connectivity between voids. This may contribute the increase of permeability after the CO 2 /brine exposure. In addition, the primary minerals comprising the core are dolomite and gypsum. Both minerals could dissolve in the CO 2 /brine environment resulting in the increase of permeability after the six-month exposure.

58 GEOSCIENCES↗
DOE OSTI2022

Low-dimensional physics of clay particle size distribution and layer ordering

Abstract Clays are known for their small particle sizes and complex layer stacking. We show here that the limited dimension of clay particles arises from the lack of long-range order in low-dimensional systems. Because of its weak interlayer interaction, a clay mineral can be treated as two separate low-dimensional systems: a 2D system for individual phyllosilicate layers and a quasi-1D system for layer stacking. The layer stacking or ordering in an interstratified clay can be described by a 1D Ising model while the limited extension of individual phyllosilicate layers can be related to a 2D Berezinskii–Kosterlitz–Thouless transition. This treatment allows for a systematic prediction of clay particle size distributions and layer stacking as controlled by the physical and chemical conditions for mineral growth and transformation. Clay minerals provide a useful model system for studying a transition from a 1D to 3D system in crystal growth and for a nanoscale structural manipulation of a general type of layered materials.

42 ENGINEERING↗
NASA NTRS1999

The Effect of Spaceflight on Bone Cell Cultures

Understanding the response of bone to mechanical loading (unloading) is extremely important in defining the means of adaptation of the body to a variety of environmental conditions such as during heightened physical activity or in extended explorations of space or the sea floor. The mechanisms of the adaptive response of bone are not well defined, but undoubtedly they involve changes occurring at the cellular level of bone structure. This proposal has intended to examine the hypothesis that the loading (unloading) response of bone is mediated by specific cells through modifications of their activity cytoskeletal elements, and/or elaboration of their extracellular matrices. For this purpose, this laboratory has utilized the results of a number of previous studies defining molecular biological, biochemical, morphological, and ultrastructural events of the reproducible mineralization of a primary bone cell (osteoblast) culture system under normal loading (1G gravity level). These data and the culture system then were examined following the use of the cultures in two NASA shuttle flights, STS-59 and STS-63. The cells collected from each of the flights were compared to respective synchronous ground (1G) control cells examined as the flight samples were simultaneously analyzed and to other control cells maintained at 1G until the time of shuttle launch, at which point they were terminated and studied (defined as basal cells). Each of the cell cultures was assayed in terms of metabolic markers- gene expression; synthesis and secretion of collagen and non-collagenous proteins, including certain cytoskeletal components; assembly of collagen into macrostructural arrays- formation of mineral; and interaction of collagen and mineral crystals during calcification of the cultures. The work has utilized a combination of biochemical techniques (radiolabeling, electrophoresis, fluorography, Western and Northern Blotting, and light microscopic immunofluorescence) and structural methods (conventional and high voltage electron microscopy, inununocytochemistry, stereomicroscopy, and 3D image reconstruction). The studies have provided new knowledge of aspects of bone cell development and structural regulation, extracellular matrix assembly, and mineralization during spaceflight and under normal gravity. The information has contributed to insights into the means in general by which cells respond and adapt to different conditions of gravity (loading). The data may as well have suggested an underlying basis for the observed loss of bone by vertebrates, including man, in microgravity; and these scientific results may have implications for understanding bone loss following fracture healing and extended periods of inactivity such as during long-term bedrest.

Landis, William J.↗
NASA NTRS2017

3-D-Observation of Matrix of MIL 090657 Meteorite by Absorption-Phase Tomography

MIL 090657 meteorite (CR2.7) is one of the least altered primitive carbonaceous c hondrites [1]. This meteorite has amorphous silicates like GEMS (glass with embedded metal and sulfide), which are characteristically contained in cometary dust, in matrix [2,3] as with the Paris meteorite [4]. Three lithologies have been recognized; lithology-1 (L 1) dominated by submicron anhydrous silicates, lithology-2 (L2) by GEMS-like amorphous silicates and lithology-3 (L3) by phyllosilicates [2]. Organic materials are abundant in L 1 and L2 [2,3]. L 1 and L2 were further divided into sub-lithology respectively based on their textures and compositions [5]. These studies were performed by 2D SEM and TEM observations of sample surfaces and thin sections that are unable to reveal what constitute each lithology and how these lithologies are distributed and related to each other. This information will provide important insights into alteration and aggregation processes on asteroids and in the early solar nebula. In this study, MIL 090657 matrix was examined in 3D using two types of X-ray tomography; DET (dual-energy tomography) [6] and SIXM (scanning-imaging X-ray microscopy) [7]. Mineral phases can be discriminated based on absorption contrasts at two different X-ray energies in DET. In SIXM, materials composed of light elements such as water or organic materials can be identified based on phase and absorption contrasts. By combining these methods, we can discriminate not only organic materials from voids but also hydrous alteration products, such as hydrated silicates and carbonates, from anhydrous minerals [8]. In this study, we first observed cross sections of MIL 090657 matrix fragments C1 00 mm) in detail using FE-SEM/ EDS. Based on the results, three house-shaped samples (3 0 -50 mm) were extracted from L 1, L2 and their boundary (H1, H3 and H5, respectively) using FIB. 3D imaging of these samples were conducted at BL47XU of SPring-8, a synchrotron radiation facility, with -30-40 nm/ voxel and - 70-80 nm/ voxel at 7keV and 8keV in DET and -100 nm/ voxel at 8keV in SIXM. We found new lithologies that we named L4, L5 and L6 in H1 and H3 in addition to L 1 and L2. L4. L5 and L6 are mainly composed of probably phyllosilicates with different Fe contents. Sulfide and framboidal magnetite were recognized in L4. L5 includes magnetite and carbonate and L6 includes anhydrous silicates having cracks inside. L 1, L2, L4 and L5 are porous while few voids were observed in L6. L4 adjoins to L 1 with boundary, which is not very distinct. L2, L5 and L6 adjoin to each other, and the boundaries of L6 with L2 and L5 are clear. In H5, coarse mineral grains C5-1 0 mm) such as Fe-metal and enstatite are present in L 1 and L2. L 1-L2 boundary is not sharp in 3 D. In conclusion, we found a variety of lithologies by 3D observation for the first time, suggesting that t he MIL 0 90657 meteorite experienced complex alteration and aggregation histories. As L2 is dominated by amorphous silicates, which are extremely susceptible to aqueous alteration, t his is p resumed to be t he most primitive lithology. The contact between L2 and phyllosilicate-bearing lithologies (L5 and L6) with clear boundaries indicates that they were aggregated after aqueous alteration of L5 and L6. The indistinct boundary between L 1 and L2 is suggesting that these two lithologies might originally be the same aggregate composed of amorphous silicates and coarse mineral grains. L 1 might have experienced weak aqueous alteration followed by mild thermal alteration [2], while L2 did not undergo aqueous alteration.

Miyama, Sugimoto↗
NASA NTRSDate not supplied

Mineralogical, Elemental and Tomographic Reconnaissance Investigation for CLPS (“METRIC”)

METRIC comprises a suite of two instruments in a Lunar lander that perform X-ray diffraction (XRD) for mineral structure, X-ray fluorescence (XRF) for elemental composition, and X-ray Micro Computed Tomography (XCT) for 3D internal micromorphology. The instruments are accompanied by optical-near IR cameras to provide local geologic context. The Honeybee Robotics PlanetVac pneumatic sampling and transfer system [1],positioned on a lander footpad, will deliver sieved regolith to the X-ray instruments for analysis. The instrument suite is intended for delivery to the lunar surface on a Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) lander. The METRICXRD/F instrument draws on heritage from the Mars Science Laboratory CheMin instrument [2] and improves upon the design in multiple ways [3]. Like CheMin, Rietveld refinement and full-pattern fitting of METRIC XRD data can identify minerals at a detection limit of ~1 wt.%, quantify their abundances when present at >3 wt.%, and determine mineral composition (e.g., Fo#in olivine) from lattice parameters for minerals present at >5 wt.%[4,5]. An optimized XRF geometry provides for improved detection and quantification of major, minor and trace elements. The METRIC XCT instrument is a miniaturized X-ray Computed Tomography scanner[6]. Lunar regolith is delivered to a 3 mm diameter, 10 mm long graphite tube inside the instrument. The tube is rotated through 360°in 0.9deg.incrementsand a divergent point source X-ray beam is directed through the material. A Charge Coupled Device (CCD)records attenuation images whose brightness and contrast area function of average atomic number and density. Quantitative data, including particle and void sizes, 3D particle shape parameters, modal volumes and pore geometry can be derived from the resulting 3D reconstructions(voxel resolution: 30 μm). Crystal morphologies derived from METRIC XCT data complement the bulk mineralogy determined by the METRIC XRD/F and provide a measure of grain size distribution for the different phases. Taken together, the METRIC instrument suite determines crystal structure, elemental composition and morphology, three principal characteristics of geological materials that are highly useful in determining the origin and subsequent processing of lunar regolith.

Moon↗
NASA NTRSDate not supplied

Mineralogical, Elemental, and Tomographic Reconnaissance Investigation for CLPS (METRIC): A Payload Designed for Exploration of Terrestrial Planetary Bodies

Geological materials (indeed, all solid objects) are characterized by their crystal structure, elemental composition, and morphology. The Mineralogical, Elemental, and Tomographic Reconnaissance Investigation for CLPS (METRIC) instrument suite quantifies all three. These measurements address fundamental science questions (e.g., the origin and evolution of planetary bodies) and support the human exploration of space (e.g., the characterization of regolith for ISRU and the constraint of its geotechnical properties). METRIC comprises an X-ray Diffraction/X-ray Fluorescence instrument (XRD: mineral structure and XRF: elemental composition), an X-ray micro-Computed Tomography instrument (XCT: 3D internal micromorphology), and a hyperspectral imaging infrared spectrometer (IRS) to provide local/regional mineralogic context for these measurements. METRIC XRD/F draws heritage from the highly successful Mars Science Laboratory CheMin instrument. The METRIC XRD/F employs two separate sample cells, one optimized for XRD and one for XRF, resulting in more rapid XRD analysis (tens of minutes vs. tens of hours for CheMin) and an orders-of-magnitude improvement in XRF detection. XCT has not been deployed in space, so the METRIC XCT represents a new capability for solar system exploration. The XCT uses the same basic high-TRL components as METRIC XRD/F, decreasing its development cost for flight. The METRIC IRS is a derivative of the NASA Earth Science Technology Office funded Hyperspectral Thermal Imager instrument and utilizes the NASA Technology Transfer Program to incorporate a commercial-of-the-shelf infrared camera ruggedized for space by NASA Marshall Space Flight Center. The IRS spectral range (8–14 µm) and resolution (10.8 cm -1 ) are tailored to quantify mineralogy in rocks using their characteristic Reststrahlen bands and to characterize mineralogy of soils using the position of the Christensen Feature. The METRIC payload is currently designed for deployment to the Moon on a Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) mission, where the XRD/F and XCT would be located on a lander and the IRS would be on deployed on a companion rover to evaluate the mineralogical diversity of the landing site. A pneumatic drill designed by Honeybee Robotics would excavate regolith up to 50 cm below the lander and deliver multiple aliquots of regolith to the XRD/F and XCT. The METRIC payload could also be deployed on a rover. In this case, a sample handling system on a robotic arm could scoop regolith and/or drill rocks and deliver powder to the XRD/F and XCT located in the rover’s interior. Alternatively, METRIC instruments could be used singly or in combination on human space missions. The XRD/F and XCT could be used to characterize samples in a rover or in a science laboratory within a habitat. These data could help astronauts identify resource-enriched rocks and regolith and triage geologic samples to return samples of high interest for analysis in terrestrial laboratories. The IRS could be attached to a human-navigated rover to collect mineralogical data along a traverse and identify high-priority science samples.

E. B. Rampe↗
DOE OSTI2025

Pore2Chip: All-in-one python tool for soil microstructure analysis and micromodel design

The Pore2Chip Python package is designed to create 2D micromodels using extracted data from 3D X-ray computed tomography (XCT) images. This package helps analyze soil structure and function, allowing for the investigation of hydro-biogeochemical processes that impact mineral extraction and reactivity, oxygen concentrations, and nutrient availability in disturbed or managed soils. Key metrics encompass pore size distributions, pore throat size distributions, and connectivity (pore coordination numbers). The final output is a 2D scalable SVG design representing a core or aggregate. Designs can be fabricated with methods such as laser etching, 3D printing, and photolithography.

lab-on-chip↗