A Roadmap to Exploiting Biocementation for Martian Construction: Pathways, Challenges, and Research Gaps

As ambitions for sustained human presence on Mars accelerate, in-situ resource utilization (ISRU) becomes essential for overcoming the logistical and economic barriers of transporting construction materials from Earth. Biocementation via microbially induced calcium carbonate precipitation (MICP) offers a promising ISRU-compatible alternative, operating under low-energy conditions suitable for Mars’ constrained power infrastructure. This review critically assesses the potential of biocementation for Martian construction by examining microbial pathways, Martian regolith chemistry, water availability, and environmental stressors such as radiation, low pressure, and temperature fluctuations. A comparative analysis of Martian regolith simulants and their compatibility with MICP is presented, alongside an evaluation of microbial viability under Martian conditions. Despite growing interest, the literature remains sparse and fragmented, lacking empirical data under relevant Martian analog conditions. This review identifies seven key research gaps and proposes a strategic roadmap to address these challenges. Establishing a rigorous scientific foundation for MICP on Mars will require interdisciplinary studies that integrate synthetic biology, materials science, and planetary engineering to develop viable biocementation systems for extraterrestrial infrastructure.