In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Guerra, whose innovative work involves the exploration of in situ resource utilization (ISRU) on Mars using non-thermal plasmas and conducting membranes. Dr. Guerra discusses how plasmas can convert different molecules directly from the Martian atmosphere to create essential feed-stock and base chemicals for producing fuels, oxygen, building materials, and fertilizers.

We delve into the various types of plasma sources that operate based on different principles and the associated dominant physicochemical mechanisms. This variety allows for the exploration of distinct energy transfer pathways leading to CO2 dissociation, encompassing direct electron-impact processes, plasma chemistry mediated by vibrationally and electronically excited states, and thermally driven dissociation.

Dr. Guerra further explains how the merging of plasma and membrane technologies is still in its developmental stages, but anticipates a potential synergistic effect between plasma decomposition and oxygen permeation across conducting membranes.

We discuss the scalability and versatility of this emerging technology and its potential to deliver high rates of production of molecules per kilogram of instrumentation sent to space. This makes it a promising candidate for future ISRU strategies on Mars.

Throughout the conversation, Dr. Guerra emphasizes the potential of this innovative approach to unlock sustainable and efficient resource utilization on Mars, contributing to the broader goals of space exploration and potential colonization.

Keywords: In Situ Resource Utilization, ISRU, Mars, Non-Thermal Plasmas, Conducting Membranes, Plasma Sources, CO2 Dissociation, Space Exploration.

Plasmas for in situ resource utilization on Mars: Fuels, life support, and agriculture featured Journal of Applied Physics 132, 070902 (2022); https://doi.org/10.1063/