Modelling vibrational segregation of granular materials in lunar gravity using the discrete element method
File(s)
Published version
Author(s)
Albino, Miguel
Paneiro, Gustavo
Rasera, Joshua
Type
Journal Article
Abstract
Advancing in-situ resource utilisation (ISRU) strategies will be critical for the sustainability of future lunar missions. One of the key operational challenges for ISRU is the development of efficient dry particle size classification methods under reduced gravity conditions. This study investigates the applicability of vibrational segregation, also known as the Brazil Nut Effect (BNE), as a dry segregation mechanism for granular materials in lunar gravity using Discrete Element Method (DEM) simulations calibrated against laboratory experiments under terrestrial conditions. The results confirm that the BNE is not only viable but potentially enhanced in lunar gravity, with simulations showing that lower amplitudes are sufficient to induce segregation, and that segregation quality and speed are enhanced under reduced gravity compared to terrestrial conditions. The study further identifies an optimal amplitude–frequency relationship for maximizing segregation efficiency under lunar conditions, supporting its use as a candidate technology for dry size classification in future lunar ISRU operations. This work contributes to bridging the gap between theoretical granular segregation principles and practical implementation within the constraints of the lunar environment.
Date Issued
2026-03-01
Date Acceptance
2025-11-27
Citation
Acta Astronautica, 2026, 240, pp.32-46
ISSN
0094-5765
Publisher
Elsevier BV
Start Page
32
End Page
46
Journal / Book Title
Acta Astronautica
Volume
240
Copyright Statement
© 2025 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd on behalf of IAA. This is an open access article under the CC BY license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/).
License URL
Publication Status
Published
Date Publish Online
2025-12-01