A broken wrench on the Moon would be more than a minor inconvenience. On a mission where every kilogram of equipment has to be launched from Earth, replacing a simple tool could become a costly logistical problem. NASA researchers are exploring a different approach: make the replacement where it is needed.
An experimental composite of synthetic lunar or Martian soil mixed with biodegradable plastic called poly(3-hydroxybutyrate), or PHB, has been made by scientists from the NASA Glenn Research Center in Cleveland. This may ultimately allow for the production of objects like brackets, chairs, and tools in future lunar or Martian settlements.
