Researchers based at the AMBER Centre in Trinity have discovered that modest amounts of carbon nanotubes can be used to transform regolith, a loose surface deposit composed of shattered pebbles and dust, into durable building materials.

The research team has shown how fine sand may be combined with nanotubes as a binder to create solid blocks that are nearly as strong as granite.

The finding opens the door to the use of nanotubes to create structural materials in extraterrestrial settings, removing the requirement to launch tools and supplies for building projects into space.