Scientists have created "space bricks" on Mars by using astronauts' urine.
Scientists have used urine to create 'space bricks' on Mars
Human settlements on the red planet have moved a step closer after experts created the bricks using urea, the main compound in urine, and Martian soil.
The slurry is poured into moulds and over the course of several days the bacteria convert the urea into calcium carbonate crystals - which act as cement to hold the soil particles together.
The bricks have been developed by researchers from the Indian Institute of Science, who are now planning to investigate how the atmosphere on Mars will affect them.
Dr. Aloke Kumar said: "This biological approach towards manufacturing of bricks presents a promising and highly sustainable potential route for in-situ utilisation of structural elements of extra-terrestrial habitats."