In-situ resource utilization
The use of local resources is called in-situ resource utilization or ISRU. This concept is critical to the survival of an autonomous or semi-autonomous settlement.
Contents
Gathering
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Atmospheric Processing
- Main article: Atmospheric processing
Many of the elements and molecules in the atmosphere can be utilized. Condensation, followed by distillation, are often used to extract resources. The atmosphere is first cooled to a liquid or solid state. This is distilled at precise temperatures in order to separate the elements and molecules.
Mining
- Main article: Mining
Minerals in the crust of Mars must be mined and processed to be useful.
Utilization
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Water
Water can be gathered in a variety of ways. It is available on the surface in the form of water ice. It may also be produced through the oxidation of hydrogen.
Breathable Atmosphere
All needed components of a breathable atmosphere are available in the ambient atmosphere, albeit in the wrong proportions and low pressure.
Hydrocarbon Synthesis
- Main article: Hydrocarbon synthesis
Hydrocarbons can be manufactured by combining hydrogen and carbon through a variety of reactions.
Silicone Synthesis
- Main article: Silicone synthesis
Agriculture
Plants are natural factories, capable of utilizing the atmosphere and regolith to grow and reproduce.
