Ilmenite - Most early work on lunar resources has focused on the mineral ilmenite (FeTiO3) as the feedstock for oxygen production. This mineral is easily reduced, and oxygen yields of 8-10 wt% (mass of oxygen per mass of ilmenite) may be achievable. Ilmenite occurs in abundances as high as 25 wt% in some lunar basalts.
Is ilmenite a silicate mineral?
Ilmenite is a common accessory mineral found in metamorphic and igneous rocks. It is found in large concentrations in layered intrusions where it forms as part of a cumulate layer within the silicate stratigraphy of the intrusion.
What can ilmenite be used for?
Ilmenite and rutile, being titanium oxide minerals, are used to produce high-performance metal parts such as artificial human body parts, aircraft engine parts, sporting equipment, synthetic rutile, pigments, etc.
