Above: A sintered basalt tile measuring 13” x 13” x 1.5” is the largest basalt product created by PISCES so far. The 15-lb. block was made using no additives—just volcanic basalt and heat.
As part of an applied research project to develop sustainable construction materials using volcanic basalt, PISCES has sintered its largest basalt tiles yet using only heat and rock.
Last month, the team created two extra-large tiles for an investor interested in commercializing the material. They measured 13” x 13” x 1.5” thick. Due to their high thermal conductivity, the tiles could be used in kitchen ovens and are anticipated to prevent heat loss and improve energy efficiency. In July, PISCES provided more than two-dozen smaller versions of the tile to the same investor for a series of durability tests. The results will be published soon.
PISCES has been researching sintered basalt for ISRU (in-situ resource utilization) since 2015. The product has potential applications for both Earth and space, especially on the Moon and Mars.