Evaluating the Feasibility of Using CO2 As a Drilling Fluid for Mars Exploration Operations

Abstract The exploration of Mars requires sustainable drilling technologies to access resources essential for human settlement. This study evaluates the use of Martian atmospheric CO2 as a drilling fluid in Millimeter Wave (MMW) drilling, leveraging Mars’ 95.1% CO2 atmosphere to eliminate the need for Earth-based fluids, aligning with In-Situ Resource Utilization (ISRU) goals. Advanced models, including the Span-Wagner and Vesovic methods, address CO2’s variable properties under Martian conditions. A Gale Crater case study demonstrates the potential to access 3000-meter-deep water reservoirs, with MMW drilling vaporizing rock and forming vitrified liners. The low Martian gravity supports efficient cuttings transport, but challenges such as CO2 clathrate formation, heat dissipation, and specialized equipment are noted. The findings underscore CO2’s viability as a drilling fluid, advancing sustainable resource extraction for Mars exploration.