Environmental Considerations

Martian Atmosphere Advantage

Mars offers a naturally ideal environment for nylon recycling and 3D printing due to its extremely low humidity. On Earth, nylon is hygroscopic, it absorbs moisture from the air, which can lead to filament bubbling, poor surface finish, and reduced mechanical strength during printing. In contrast, Mars’ dry atmosphere significantly reduces moisture absorption, allowing for cleaner extrusion, stronger interlayer bonding, and more durable printed components. This environmental compatibility enhances the long-term performance of structural parts like brackets and mounts. Studies of thermoplastics in harsh, low-humidity environments support the durability and stability of printed polymers under Martian conditions, making Mars uniquely suited for on-site nylon processing.

Environmental Challenge: UV Exposure

One disadvantage of the Martian surface is its high exposure to ultraviolet radiation, which can degrade polymers over time. To combat this, we propose a protective coating strategy using Ti-6Al-4V (Titanium 64) A lightweight, corrosion-resistant alloy that can be sourced from mission waste or structural components. By applying a thin titanium layer over printed nylon brackets, we shield them from UV damage while maintaining strength and flexibility. This dual-material approach extends the lifespan of printed infrastructure and supports safe, long-term operations.

Site Relevance: Jezero Crater

Jezero Crater is a prime candidate for future Mars missions and an ideal location for deploying our system. Its low relative humidity supports efficient nylon drying and extrusion, while its geological stability ensures safe, uninterrupted recycling operations. The crater’s terrain also offers accessible landing zones and proximity to scientific interest sites, making it a strategic hub for both exploration and infrastructure development.

Sustainable Mars Operations

Our system supports modular repairs and infrastructure upgrades using recycled materials, reducing the need for Earth-supplied components. By enabling closed-loop recycling of mission waste, we contribute to NASA’s goals for resource efficiency, crew autonomy, and safe, sustainable operations on the Martian surface.