Zero Gravity Dry Environment Mineral Separation
Ian A MacAskill, Anna L Tam, Andrew J Taylor,
This paper will consider mineral processing in zero gravity dry environments typical of asteroids or comets. Pneumatic flow systems along with electrostatic or magnetic separation techniques will be explored. Pneumatic delivery of solids is used because of extreme temperature changes and the possible scarcity of water. Present earth-based processes and how they can be modified for these conditions will be examined.
Keywords:
Zero Gravity, Electrostatic separation, Mineral Processing, Magnetic separation, Dry Processing, Pneumatic Transport
