TECHNICAL NOTES
Sep 15, 2003

Particle Size Distribution of Lunar Soil

Publication: Journal of Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Engineering
Volume 129, Issue 10

Abstract

Meteorite impact on the lunar surface produces a consistent, broadly graded soil. In this note, the geotechnical and geological systems are compared to characterize lunar soil. In geotechnical terms, the lunar soil particle size distribution is described as sandy silt/silty sand, well-graded. In geologic terms, it is described as very fine sand, very poorly sorted, nearly symmetrical, and mesokurtic. Because of its broad particle size distribution, lunar soil may be internally erodible.

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Go to Journal of Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Engineering
Journal of Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Engineering
Volume 129Issue 10October 2003
Pages: 956 - 959

History

Received: Oct 2, 2001
Accepted: Nov 20, 2002
Published online: Sep 15, 2003
Published in print: Oct 2003

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W. David Carrier, III, F.ASCE
Director, Lunar Geotechnical Institute, P.O. Box 5056, Lakeland, FL 33807-5056.

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