Discovery paves way for Mars colonisation and clean energy

Scientists have harnessed a mineral, abundant on Mars, to create a novel material with promising applications in energy and construction.

This material, derived from the Martian mineral gypsum (calcium sulphate), is central to recent research. Gypsum, known for its extensive presence on Mars, is a potential reservoir of the planet's ancient water. The study, featured in ‘Advanced Functional Materials,’ reveals that what NASA previously considered a waste product, can be converted into a valuable resource for future Mars missions.

Researchers have developed a process to extract water from Martian gypsum, leaving behind anhydrite, a by-product. This anhydrite, once seen as mere waste, has been transformed into nanobelts — ultrafine materials smaller than a human hair. These nanobelts, as discovered by a team including University of Sussex experts, exhibit unique electronic properties, such as semiconducting and insulating behaviours, that are vital for clean energy and electronics.

Lead author Conor Boland's statement emphasises the significance of this discovery: converting what was essentially Martian rock into transformative nanomaterials. These nanomaterials have varied applications, from clean hydrogen fuel production to the development of electronic devices akin to transistors, and even strengthening textiles.

A crucial aspect of this research is the sustainability of the process. The water extracted during the gypsum conversion is reusable, ensuring a continuous supply for future Martian settlers.