Press coverage: "cosmic concrete' made from potato chips, salt, and dust can be used to build homes on mars"

Scientists at the University of Manchester have developed “StarCrete,” a new type of cosmic concrete made by mixing simulated Martian soil with potato starch (sourced from dehydrated potatoes, like potato chips) and a pinch of salt. The resulting material is twice as strong as regular concrete and could be used to build structures on Mars or the Moon. This innovation builds on earlier research that used astronauts’ blood and urine as binders, an effective but less practical approach. According to lead researcher Dr. Aled Roberts, using potato starch is simpler and more sustainable for space missions, avoiding the need for complex equipment or biologically sourced binders. A single sack of potato chips could make over 200 StarCrete bricks, making it a feasible solution for extra-terrestrial construction. The team has also launched a start-up, Dekiln, to explore its use on Earth.

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