In-Situ Production of Oxygen on Mars Using Inductively Coupled Plasmas

The exploration and colonization of Mars presents numerous challenges, particularly with regards to ensuring a sustainable supply of essential resources such as oxygen. With the Martian atmosphere composed of approximately 95% carbon dioxide (CO2), one promising solution is the in-situ production of oxygen. While several previous works have proposed the use of DC or Radio-Frequency (RF) Capacitively Coupled Plasmas (CCPs) to generate oxygen from CO2, challenges with output capacity, energy efficiency, and operating lifetime remains. This project aims to explore the use of Inductively Coupled Plasmas (ICPs; sometimes also referred to as inductive plasma torches) as an alternative electrodeless method to more efficiently convert Martian CO2 into oxygen. Such oxygen can then be utilized for both life support and as a propellant for chemical or electrothermal propulsion systems.

Inductive plasma torches offer a highly controlled and energy-efficient means of breaking down CO2 molecules through ionization and dissociation. By applying a time-varying current to an RF coil, electric fields are generated that can be used to sustain a high-density plasma. CO2 can then be fragmented through various collisional processes into oxygen and carbon monoxide (CO), with oxygen serving as a vital resource for astronauts, and both oxygen and CO potentially having value as propellants for chemical propulsion systems. This would represent a critical step in advancing In-Situ Resource Utilization (ISRU) technologies, enabling future missions to Mars to be less reliant on Earth-based supply chains.

This project will combine global modelling and experimental testing of inductive plasma torches operated with CO2. Detailed plasma kinetics will explore the characteristics of CO2 plasmas, while experimental measurements will validate the model and help to optimize system efficiency under Martian conditions. By leveraging inductive plasma torches for oxygen production, this research aims to contribute to the feasibility of a long-term human presence on Mars, supporting both human survival and future space exploration missions.

This project will be performed in collaboration with the Research School of Physics at the Australian National University (ANU), the Laboratoire de Physique des Plasmas at Ecole Polytechnique in France, and the Instituto de Plasmas e Fusao at Instituto Superior Technico in Portugal. There is potential for the student to visit France and Portugal during their PhD to interact with project collaborators.

The ideal candidate will have a background in physics and/or engineering with strong mathematical, programming, and communication skills.

How to apply

If you are interested, please send the following by email to Dr Trevor Lafleur at t.lafleur@unsw.edu.au