By Andi Anderson
From lunar exploration to the farmlands of Iowa, the Soil Machine Dynamics Laboratory (SMDL) at Iowa State University is advancing technology to address challenges in both outer space and local agriculture.
The laboratory combines innovation and engineering to better understand how machinery interacts with soil in extreme and everyday environments.
Researchers are developing tools that predict equipment wear, analyze soil behavior, and test new materials. Their work includes NASA-funded projects designed to model how ground-engaging tools function under lunar conditions.
Using an artificial soil mix developed in the lab, the team successfully simulated moonlike surfaces to help design excavation equipment for harvesting water from the lunar regolith.
“That was a fascinating project,” said the laboratory director. “It was also exciting to work on solving a big challenge like this with a former student, whose company landed the grant.”
The research continues with studies supporting NASA’s Artemis mission, examining how vehicles move on soft, deformable terrain. Closer to home, the lab’s focus shifts to Iowa’s soil—studying compaction, precision tillage, and equipment efficiency.
Recent experiments showed that flexible agricultural tires with reduced inflation can minimize soil compaction and improve yields, benefiting long-term crop health.
“Primarily, we serve as an independent testing center that provides scientific data to develop and validate predictive models for decision-making within the grower-machinery equipment manufacture chain,” the director explained.
Industry experts credit the lab with revitalizing soil dynamics research and continuing a legacy that dates back to the 1950s. Collaborations with major agricultural and machinery manufacturers have strengthened its role as a vital resource for innovation.
“Farmers in Iowa and beyond can greatly benefit from the SMDL’s research,” said a field engineer at Iowa State University Extension. “That is especially true related to the work studying soil compaction from heavy equipment and ways to avoid it.”
The lab will also host a Soil Compaction School on November 14 near Boone, offering educational sessions supported by leading farm and industry organizations.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-sasiistock
Categories: Iowa, Education