StarCrete: A starch-based biocomposite for off-world construction

Abstract Robust and affordable technology capabilities are needed before a sustained human presence on the lunar Martian surfaces can be established. A key challenge is production of high-strength structural materials from in situ resources to provide spacious habitats with adequate radiation shielding. Ideally, such will achieved through relatively simple, low-energy processes that support other critical systems. Here, we demonstrate use ordinary starch as binder for simulated extraterrestrial regolith produce biocomposite material, termed StarCrete. With this technique, surplus produced food inhabitants could used construction, integrating two systems significantly simplifying architecture sustain early colonies. After optimisation, StarCrete compressive strengths 91.7 72.0 MPa, respectively, which well within domain concrete (>42 MPa) surpasses most proposed solutions despite being process. The flexural strength StarCrete, at 2.1 8.4 was also comparable (2.5–4.5 MPa).