The idea of building permanent habitats on Mars has long been part of science fiction scenarios. However, a research team from Kharazmi University in Iran has come up with a highly innovative solution that could make this dream a reality: using human blood as a building material! But is this really possible? The details are in our news…

Could human blood be used as a building material to build houses on Mars?

First of all, the team developed this striking proposal inspired by an ancient Roman building technique. The ancient Romans used animal blood and urine in building materials to increase durability. The researchers think a similar method could be adapted to the harsh conditions on Mars. So why human blood?

The amount of materials that can be transported on manned missions to Mars is subject to severe restrictions. Therefore, in addition to local resources, astronauts’ biological materials are also to be utilized. The research team developed a new building material called “AstroCrete” by combining regolith, which is abundant on the Martian surface, with the albumin protein found in human blood.

Actually, this process is quite simple: Martian soil is mixed with the albumin protein in human plasma to create a durable type of concrete. The researchers tested this material with 3D printers and put it through various durability tests.

Could AstroCrete be the building material of the future?

AstroCrete is a different alternative to the sulfur-based concrete proposed for the first structures on Mars. The colonization of Mars is pushing people to think outside the box. The idea of utilizing natural resources, such as the human body, may seem disturbing at first. But it is also a shining example of how human ingenuity can turn challenges into opportunities.