Under the Microscope: NASA-Made Material for Moon Manufacturing

Researchers at NASA’s Glenn Research Center in Cleveland have developed a new manufacturing material combining a special biodegradable plastic with simulated Moon and Mars dust. Led by research chemical engineer Allison Christy alongside summer interns Tyler Klinchuch, Ethan Bilodeau, and Emma Levenson, the team found that adding lunar and Martian dust particles makes the plastic stronger and easier to process.

The biodegradable plastic can be produced by bacteria fed with carbon dioxide or crew waste. This versatile material could be manufactured directly on the Moon or Mars to build habitat equipment such as wrenches, chairs, and structural brackets, reducing launch costs and supply weight. The project is funded by NASA Glenn’s 2026 Center Innovation Fund.

Currently, the material is undergoing evaluation in Glenn’s Lunar Environment Structural Test Rig to assess its durability under extreme temperatures. Additionally, sample materials are scheduled to launch on the upcoming Materials International Space Station Experiment 23 (MISSE-23) mission for exposure to intense external station conditions. Future development plans include analyzing whether the material can endure harsh outdoor environments on the lunar and Martian surfaces.