Scientists have successfully grown algae under simulated Martian conditions using biodegradable bioplastics, a step that could bring long-term space colonization closer to reality. A team of researchers led by Robin Wordsworth from Harvard University demonstrated that green algae can not only survive but thrive inside bioplastic chambers designed to mimic the extreme environment of Mars.
The experiment involved cultivating a common type of green algae called Dunaliella tertiolecta inside a 3D-printed chamber made from polylactic acid, a biodegradable plastic derived from natural sources. The chamber was engineered to replicate the thin, carbon dioxide-rich atmosphere of Mars, which has a surface pressure less than 1% that of Earth.
Despite these extreme conditions, the algae were able to perform photosynthesis, according to the statement. The researchers attribute the experiment’s success to the bioplastic chamber, which shielded the algae from harmful ultraviolet radiation while still allowing sufficient light to penetrate.
The results suggest that bioplastics could be a viable material for constructing habitats on Mars and other celestial bodies. Unlike conventional industrial materials, which are expensive to transport and difficult to recycle off-Earth, bioplastics can potentially be produced and reused on-site using biological processes.
The team plans to test their bioplastic systems in vacuum conditions relevant to moon and deep-space missions next. The breakthrough could pave the way for self-sustaining space habitats and support humans living in space. As this technology develops, it’s expected to have spinoff benefits for sustainability technology here on Earth as well.
Source: https://www.space.com/astronomy/mars/this-wild-bioplastic-made-of-algae-just-aced-a-mars-pressure-test-can-astronauts-use-it-to-build-on-the-red-planet