A new effort to construct lunar infrastructure using 3D printing is underway in Italy, where the GLAMS Project (Geopolymers for Additive Manufacturing and Lunar Monitoring) is experimenting with cement binders derived from lunar regolith. Funded by ASI, the Italian Space Agency, this two-year initiative reduces costs and resource consumption by harnessing Moon-based materials rather than relying on terrestrial supplies. Researchers showcased the first 3D printed geopolymer samples at the 75th International Astronautical Congress in Milano, signaling a step forward in extraterrestrial building methods.Geopolymer 3D printing using WASP 40100 LDM Printer. Photo via WASP.University of Paduas Center for Space Studies and Activities Giuseppe Colombo (CISAS) coordinates GLAMS in partnership with the Institute of Condensed Matter Chemistry and Energy Technologies of the CNR, an Italian research institution located in Genoa, and WASP, the Italian 3D printing technology specialists. The project team, led by Professors Luca Valentini, Carlo Bettanini, and Dr. Giorgia Franchin, has spent months refining geopolymer binders created through chemical activation of lunar soils. Foaming agents selected by the CNR research unit make it possible to achieve a macro-porous internal structure, and WASP has begun turning these formulations into larger-scale prototypes. Further development includes integrating sensor networks to detect micrometeoroid impacts, a hazard common in off-Earth environments.GLAMPS team at ASI. Photo via WASP.Researchers plan to adapt these geopolymer blends to withstand significant temperature swings, reduced gravity, and variable atmospheric pressure on the Moon. One of the key technologies is the WASP 40100 LDM printer, introduced here with a liquid deposition modeling process designed for ceramic and cement-like materials. This machine features a sizable build area that accommodates medium-scale structures, offering potential for in-situ fabrication of habitats or shielding components. Monitoring strategiessupervised by Bettaninis teaminclude embedded sensors, which could provide early warnings for damage and structural fatigue in hostile lunar conditions.WASPs Sustainable Innovations at Formnext 2024Last year, WASP unveiled at Formnext several sustainable technologies aimed at addressing environmental concerns in architecture, manufacturing, and design. WASP introduced innovations such as a circular recycling system for plastics, a dynamic multicolor extrusion process, and large-scale printing solutions using geopolymer materials. The company demonstrated 3D printed geopolymer modules developed with Eindhoven University that replace clay, reduce energy usage, and accommodate plant growth and wildlife habitats. These modules maintain chemical and mechanical durability while reducing CO emissions.WASP also highlighted its use of synchronized 3D printers to construct low-carbon buildings, such as the 100 m prototype built for the Institute for Advanced Architecture of Catalonia (IAAC) in Barcelona. These projects use locally sourced soils and natural materials to lower construction-related CO emissions. Additionally, the companys work with rrreefs demonstrated coral reef modules printed with WASP 40100 Production systems, contributing to marine ecosystem regeneration through additive manufacturing.Coral reef 3D printing in alliance with rrreefs. Photo via WASP.Ready to discover who won the 20243D Printing Industry Awards?What will the future of 3D printing look like?Which recent trends are driving the 3D printing industry, as highlighted by experts?Subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry newsletter to stay updated with the latest news and insights.Stay connected with the latest in 3D printing by following us on Twitter and Facebook, and dont forget to subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry YouTube channel for more exclusive content.