Concrete for Lunar and Mars Soils In Situ Resource Utilization

A review of concrete basics is presented to provide a general background for discussions of the potential uses of concrete on the Moon and Mars. Problems associated with production of cement, mixing methods, water introduction methods, curing methods, and reclamation of free water are discussed. An example concrete mix design using precise slabs to cover a habitat is presented. The example shows that for 42 cubic yards of concrete, 23,688 pounds of cement and 1,370 pounds of water are required for a water-to-cement ration of 0.48. Only about 5,685 pounds of water is needed for cement hydration. The balance of the water is free water and should be reclaimed or methods devised for dry mixing and adding just enough water to hydrate the cement. Recommendations for further experimental research are presented.