Bacteria-powered biocement could help build first homes on Mars

Researchers from the Polytechnic University of Milan have proposed an innovative method to build habitats on Mars using bacteria-powered biocementation, which transforms Martian soil (regolith) into a solid, concrete-like material. This approach leverages a symbiotic microbial system involving two bacteria: Chroococcidiopsis, a resilient cyanobacterium that survives harsh Martian conditions and produces oxygen, and Sporosarcina pasteurii, which secretes enzymes that precipitate calcium carbonate, effectively binding soil particles into strong blocks. This biocementation process offers a sustainable, in situ resource utilization (ISRU) strategy, reducing the need to transport heavy construction materials from Earth. The method not only promises to create durable building materials at room temperature but also supports closed-loop sustainability on Mars. Oxygen produced by Chroococcidiopsis could aid life-support systems, while metabolic byproducts like ammonia from S. pasteurii might be integrated into Martian agriculture. Despite its potential, the concept awaits further