An assumption of in situ resource utilization for “bio-bricks” in space exploration

Microbially induced carbonate precipitation (MICP) mimics the natural cementation process that occurs in various geological settings by using bicarbonate minerals resulting from bacterial metabolic pathways as cementing agents. This bio-technique can be used to manufacture so-called “bio-bricks,” which rival regular bricks strength and durability. In last two decades, MICP has been increasingly utilized for maintenance repair of infrastructure. More recently, this also shown have great potential an energy-saving cost-effective means situ resource utilization (ISUR) produce construction materials; these extraterrestrial human settlements space programs such lunar exploration. We thus review description cementation, anaerobic aerobic activities leading calcium precipitation, properties regolith, production bio-bricks, research needs.