This review explores the development and potential applications of space concrete, a critical material for future extraterrestrial construction. Space concrete, adapted to withstand the harsh conditions of outer space, such as extreme temperatures, vacuum, microgravity, and radiation, offers a sustainable solution for building habitats and infrastructure on celestial bodies like the Moon and Mars. Emphasizing the innovative approaches in formulating space concrete, including the use of lunar and Martian soil as aggregates and the exploration of alternative binders to traditional water-based cement, this review highlights the significance of in-situ resource utilization (ISRU) and 3D printing technologies in advancing extraterrestrial construction. Additionally, the current designs and applications of space concrete structures are discussed. By providing a detailed analysis of the challenges faced in space construction and the latest advancements in material and structural research, the review underlines the pivotal role of space concrete in supporting space exploration and long-term habitat.

The construction of extraterrestrial bases has become a new goal in the active exploration of deep space. Among the construction techniques, in situ resource-based construction is one of the most promising because of its good sustainability and acceptable economic cost, triggering the development of various types of extraterrestrial construction materials. A comprehensive survey and comparison of materials from the perspective of performance was conducted to provide suggestions for material selection and optimization. Thirteen types of typical construction materials are discussed in terms of their reliability and applicability in extreme extraterrestrial environment. Mechanical, thermal and optical, and radiation-shielding properties are considered. The influencing factors and optimization methods for these properties are analyzed. From the perspective of material properties, the existing challenges lie in the comprehensive, long-term, and real characterization of regolith-based construction materials. Correspondingly, the suggested future directions include the application of high-throughput characterization methods, accelerated durability tests, and conducting extraterrestrial experiments. (c) 2024 THE AUTHORS. Published by Elsevier LTD on behalf of Chinese Academy of Engineering and Higher Education Press Limited Company. This is an open access article under the CC BY license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/).

The need to build a long-term or even permanent base is now a significant concern with the development of the exploration of extraterrestrial celestial bodies. Sulfur concrete was first proposed as a new building material in the 20th century. Recently, sulfur concrete has attracted much interest, as sulfur is considered one of the most accessible resources on the Moon and Mars, thanks to the in-situ resource utilization methodology. In addition, sulfur concrete is one of the most promising building materials for improving terrestrial sustainability or extraterrestrial exploration. So far, reviews have only focused on developing sulfur concrete and extraterrestrial building materials. This review paper summarizes the history of sulfur concrete development and different modified sulfur concretes. Previous research on extraterrestrial building materials is also reviewed. The unique advantage of sulfur concrete as an extraterrestrial material is justified, as no water is used during mixing. Lunar and Martian soil simulants are also examined as possible aggregate types. Finally, further improvements are proposed to broaden the application of sulfur concrete and the corresponding treatments. The possibility of recyclability and circularity is discussed from a sustainable development point of view. This review article provides readers with a detailed overview of sulfur concrete and its history, why it is more promising and accessible as an (extra)terrestrial building material, the challenges of its future application, and corresponding treatments to overcome the obstacles.