Brief
Learn about StarCrete, a cutting-edge bio-composite material developed by scientists at the University of Manchester. Utilising potato starch, this lunar and Martian concrete outperforms traditional Earth-based concrete in terms of compressive strength, promising a revolution in off-world construction.
Insight
Research conducted at the University of Manchester has led to an intriguing development in the quest for permanent structures on the Moon and Mars.
The study, published in Open Engineering in March 2023, reveals a new type of concrete named ‘StarCrete’, made with potato starch as a binder. Simulated Martian and lunar soils were combined with this binder to create a concrete with more than double the comprehensive strength of ordinary Earth-based concrete.
In comparison to the 42 Megapascals (MPa) compressive strength of high-strength Earth-based concrete, lunar and Martian StarCrete showcased compressive strengths of 91.7 and 72.0 MPa respectively. Moreover, only 55 lbs. of dehydrated potatoes are required to produce approximately 200 bricks, nearly half a tonne of StarCrete, offering a sustainable alternative to more conventional, and less appealing, construction materials.
Alongside potato starch, researchers explored using corn starch as a binder, creating a mixture known as ‘CoRncrete’. Despite displaying a 30 MPa compressive strength, it was found to be highly susceptible to moisture, thus deeming it unsuitable for Earth-based applications. However, the drier surfaces of the Moon and Mars may prove to be a perfect environment for this innovative material.
Different starch sources were tested, such as maize, rice, wheat, and tapioca, but potato starch emerged as the superior binder. Various additives were tested, with urea and acetic acid enhancing the mixture. However, a dangerous by-product of poisonous gas led to the removal of urea from further tests, leaving magnesium chloride in the mix.
While there’s great potential in StarCrete, the researchers stress that more study is needed. Future experimentation should focus on a wider range of starches and additives, impact resistance, testing under simulated conditions, and the possibility of 3D printing with StarCrete. This research could potentially lead to new types of concrete for Earth-based constructions as well.
Hightlight
- In comparison to the 42 Megapascals (MPa) compressive strength of high-strength Earth-based concrete, lunar and Martian StarCrete showcased compressive strengths of 91.7 and 72.0 MPa respectively.
- Only 55 lbs. of dehydrated potatoes are required to produce approximately 200 bricks, nearly half a tonne of StarCrete, offering a sustainable alternative to more conventional, and less appealing, construction materials.
- using corn starch as a binder, creating a mixture known as ‘CoRncrete’. Despite displaying a 30 MPa compressive strength, it was found to be highly susceptible to moisture, thus deeming it unsuitable for Earth-based applications.
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