Dust from Mars as material for 3D printers
1. Dust from Mars as a material for 3D printers – the most durable in combination with titanium
2. The discovery is the fruit of scientific work
3. Durability tests of the raw material in question – passed
Dust from Mars as a material for 3D printers - the most durable in combination with titanium
With the development of civilization, we find out that thanks to scientific discoveries, manufacturers of everyday products use alternative materials needed for their production. Over the years, conventional production methods are even replaced by modern methods. For a long time, the composition of the dust that covers Mars has been the focus of researchers’ attention. As a result of breakneck research, it turned out that such Martian dust, combined in appropriate proportions with the well-known and widespread element titanium, can become a full-fledged material. We will use this material in 3D printers. Dust from Mars as material for 3D printers? Probably many skeptics will ask this question. So let’s dispel any doubts in this regard.
The discovery is the fruit of scientific work
The discovery of the usefulness of Martian dust was made by scientists from Waskington State University. They tested the substance in question on various levels of everyday use. Martian regolith – because this is the technical name of the substance – is visually deceptively similar to black sand. If we were to indicate its chemical properties, they are identical to the inorganic dust that is present on the entire surface of Mars. Scientists have determined that Martian dust as an intrinsic material would be of little use, given its fragility.
Despite this state of affairs, the researchers did not give up. They determined that the Martian raw material could be helpful in the production of coatings that are supposed to protect devices from corrosion or radiation damage. This will prove itself in the potential process of colonization of Mars. Why? We can’t take everything from space. Transporting any materials from planets is extremely expensive. Therefore, 3D printing, i.e. the ability to produce the desired thing on site, would work well here. Therefore, scientists see great hope in a 3D printer during the expansion of space. Researchers from Washington are already using a powder printer, and in it they are using Martian dust along with powdered titanium. Titanium is a raw material that we have been using for several years in space flights.
Durability tests of the raw material in question - passed
Scientists heated the printed elements with a laser to a temperature of over 2000 degrees. In addition, they molded them to various sizes and shapes. Later, the researchers tested the finished products for their durability. It turned out that the scratches that appeared on the material they made of Martian dust are not an obstacle to us being able to use them in the anti-radiation coating. Ceramic material, despite unreliability in terms of durability, has fulfilled its role on other levels.
If we are talking about a mixture of Martian dust and titanium, it has already gained a lot of favor. Scientists have classified it as a material that is resistant to heavy loads. Certainly, the obtained material will soon prove useful in the process of making devices and tools for potential colonists, and even rockets!
