Mechanical behaviour of sulphur-based Martian regolith concrete processed under CO2-rich conditions

Abstract

Martian regolith holds promise as a potential construction material for future settlements on the planet's surface. However, the planet's predominantly CO2-rich atmosphere poses challenges that may impact the mechanical properties of regolith-based concrete materials. In this study, we explore the compressive and flexural characteristics of Martian regolith simulant concrete mixtures incorporating sulphur, processed under CO2-rich conditions. The results reveal that regolith simulant concrete mixtures containing 70 wt% sulphur exhibit a maximum flexural strength of 5.95 ± 0.25 MPa. Meanwhile, the highest compressive strength of 3.66 ± 0.25 MPa and elastic modulus of 9.57 ± 0.32 GPa are achieved with regolith simulant mixtures comprising 60 wt% sulphur. These findings offer crucial insights for the advancement of construction materials tailored for future Martian settlements.