Chinese scientists identify lunar soil as natural ultra-insulating material

China’s scientists have achieved a breakthrough in space materials research by precisely measuring the thermal conductivity of a single lunar soil particle, revealing it to be one of the most effective natural insulating materials ever identified, repots Global Times, a partner of TV BRICS.

The study, conducted by a joint team from the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tsinghua University and the Technology and Engineering Centre for Space Utilisation, analysed samples collected during the Chang'e-5 mission.

Researchers found that specific components of lunar soil, known as agglutinates, exhibit exceptionally low thermal conductivity in vacuum conditions, comparable to high-performance synthetic aerogels. This represents the lowest thermal conductivity ever recorded for a naturally occurring material.

Experts reported that the findings provide new insight into the Moon’s extreme thermal environment. Lunar soil consists of various particle types, including agglutinates, rock fragments and glass beads, each with distinct physical properties. Among them, agglutinates stand out due to their complex internal structure.

Formed through space weathering processes, these particles contain intricate networks of pores ranging from nanometre to micrometre scale, along with diverse mineral interfaces. This structure effectively suppresses heat transfer at multiple scales, resulting in remarkable insulating performance.

Using a combination of advanced structural analysis and simulation techniques, the team demonstrated how these features limit phonon transport within the material, explaining its ultra-low thermal conductivity.

The research establishes a new experimental and theoretical framework for studying heat transfer under lunar conditions and provides valuable data for modelling the Moon’s thermal environment.

Scientists say the discovery could have practical applications in the design of spacecraft, landers and on-site lunar infrastructure, particularly in managing temperature extremes. It may also inspire the development of next-generation insulation materials on Earth, based on naturally occurring structures found in lunar soil.