# Mars construction biomaterial development > Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/mars-construction-biomaterial-development > Updated: 2026-09-30T21:30:00.000Z. Sources: 5. Developments: 2. Researchers in Hong Kong have developed a 3D-printable biological material designed for construction on Mars using In-Situ Resource Utilization (ISRU). The material is composed of sand or regolith-like substances, gelatin, and genetically engineered yeast that produces adhesive proteins inspired by how mussels attach to rocks. In laboratory tests simulating Martian environments—specifically at -30 degrees Celsius and a pressure of 0.01 atmospheres—the material underwent a freeze-drying process. This resulted in an average compressive strength of approximately 12 megapascals and a flexural strength of 6 megapascals. The material has demonstrated the ability to maintain mechanical performance even after being recycled four times. While the technology offers a potential alternative to energy-intensive sulfur-based concrete, it remains in the early stages of development. Current prototypes are limited to small-scale structures, such as domes roughly 45 millimeters high, and further research is required to address challenges regarding radiation shielding, thermal insulation, airtightness, and the transition to full-scale autonomous construction. ## Timeline ### 2026-09-30: Researchers develop 3D-printable biological material for Mars construction Researchers have developed a 3D-printable mixture of sand, gelatin, and yeast that can harden in simulated Martian conditions, offering a potential biological alternative for space construction. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/researchers-develop-3d-printable-biological-material-for-mars-construction ### 2026-09-27: University of Hong Kong researchers develop 3D-printable material for Mars construction University of Hong Kong researchers developed a 3D-printable material using sand, gelatin, and engineered yeast to enable construction on Mars using local resources. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/university-of-hong-kong-researchers-develop-3d-printable-material-for-mars-construction --- Cite as: Mars construction biomaterial development. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/mars-construction-biomaterial-development