Bacteria-Powered 'Space Bricks' Offer Sustainable Solution for Lunar Construction.

In a groundbreaking development, scientists at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), in partnership with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), have devised an innovative technique to fabricate and mend 'space bricks' using lunar soil simulant and a specific bacterium, Sporosarcina pasteurii. This advancement holds significant promise for constructing sustainable habitats on the Moon by utilizing in-situ resources.

The research team, led by Dr. Aloke Kumar, focused on the concept of in-situ resource utilization (ISRU), which emphasizes the use of local materials to minimize the need for transporting supplies from Earth—a strategy that aligns with NASA's long-term objectives for space exploration.arXiv

The process involves a biomineralization technique known as Microbially Induced Calcite Precipitation (MICP). In this method, S. pasteurii bacteria are introduced into a mixture containing lunar soil simulant, urea, and a calcium source. The bacteria produce an enzyme called urease, which hydrolyzes urea to generate carbonate ions. These ions then react with calcium to precipitate calcium carbonate, effectively binding the soil particles together to form solid bricks.

Initially, the team faced challenges in sustaining bacterial activity within the lunar soil simulant. To overcome this, they incorporated guar gum—a natural polymer extracted from guar beans—into the mixture. The addition of guar gum not only enhanced the viability of the bacteria but also improved the mechanical strength of the resulting bricks.

The fabricated bricks demonstrated compressive strength comparable to that of conventional mud bricks used on Earth. Recognizing the Moon's harsh environment, characterized by extreme temperature fluctuations ranging from 121°C during the day to -133°C at night, the researchers explored the self-healing potential of these bio-bricks.

To simulate potential damage, the team created artificial cracks in sintered bricks made from the lunar soil simulant. They then applied the bacterial slurry to these defects. Over time, the bacteria facilitated the precipitation of calcium carbonate within the cracks, effectively restoring the structural integrity of the bricks.

Looking ahead, the researchers are conducting experiments under simulated space conditions, including vacuum chambers and microgravity environments, to assess the feasibility of this technique in actual lunar settings. Collaborations are underway to design a payload for future missions, aiming to test the behavior of S. pasteurii in space.

This pioneering work not only offers a sustainable approach to building extraterrestrial habitats but also underscores the potential of leveraging biological processes for space exploration. As Dr. Kumar reflects, understanding and utilizing such microbial capabilities could be pivotal in establishing human presence beyond Earth.

Source:https://www.the-scientist.com/linking-the-gut-microbiota-and-neurological-diseases-72810

This is non-financial/medical advice and made using AI so could be wrong.