# Innovative Building Material for Mars: Astronaut Blood-Based Creations
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Chapter 1: The Challenge of Building on Mars
Constructing habitats on Mars presents numerous hurdles, particularly concerning expenses. Transporting a single brick from Earth to the Red Planet costs over $2 million. To tackle this issue, scientists are exploring innovative methods to develop affordable building materials using resources that future inhabitants will have on hand upon arrival.
One promising solution comes from a study conducted by researchers at the University of Manchester, which introduces a novel building material known as AstroCrete. This substance combines extraterrestrial soil with a protein found in astronaut blood, resulting in a composite that exhibits compressive strengths comparable to traditional concrete.
Section 1.1: The Science Behind AstroCrete
AstroCrete is formed by blending Martian dust with human serum albumin, a protein abundant in blood plasma. This protein, synthesized by the liver, is crucial for transporting vitamins and enzymes throughout the body. Researchers have found that adding urea—produced as a metabolic waste in human bodily fluids—enhances AstroCrete's strength by 300%, yielding a material that is roughly twice as strong as conventional concrete.
The chemical process that occurs when blood proteins denature outside the body leads to the formation of structural bonds known as “beta sheets.” These bonds create a robust molecular framework that holds the materials together effectively.
Subsection 1.1.1: Future Implications for Mars Colonization
According to Aled Roberts, the lead researcher from the University of Manchester, AstroCrete could revolutionize construction on distant planets. His calculations suggest that a team of six astronauts could generate over 500 kilograms of this material in two years, which could be utilized to create housing pods by binding sandbags filled with Martian soil. Moreover, AstroCrete has the potential to be 3D printed into more complex structures, enhancing its versatility.
Interestingly, the idea of incorporating blood into building materials is not entirely new. Historical records indicate that animal blood was utilized as a binder for mortar in medieval construction. “It is fascinating that a significant challenge of the space age might be addressed through techniques inspired by medieval practices,” remarked Roberts.
Section 1.2: A Look Back at Historical Practices
Chapter 2: Pioneering Construction Techniques for Space
The first video titled "How We Will Build Houses On Mars!" delves into futuristic construction methodologies that could be employed on the Martian surface, providing insights into the innovative approaches being researched.
The second video, "The Mars Homes That NASA Awarded $500k," showcases the projects that NASA has funded, highlighting the promising designs and technologies aimed at creating sustainable living environments on Mars.