Mary Dempsey
Papers
1
Total Citations
27
H-Index
1
About
Mary Dempsey is a pioneering researcher at the intersection of additive manufacturing and space exploration, whose work is redefining how we build beyond Earth. Her primary research areas include extraterrestrial construction, 3D-printed concrete, and in-situ resource utilization (ISRU), with a focus on developing sustainable, waterless materials for robotic construction on the Moon and Mars. Dempsey’s most notable contribution is her 2024 study on 3D-printed sulfur-regolith concrete, which demonstrated that sulfur-based binders can replace water to create durable, printable structures using local lunar or Martian soil. This breakthrough, already garnering 27 citations in its first year, addresses a critical challenge in space habitation: the prohibitive cost of transporting water and traditional building materials. By proving that sulfur-regolith composites can be extruded and cured in vacuum and extreme temperature conditions, Dempsey has laid the groundwork for autonomous robotic construction of habitats, landing pads, and radiation shielding. Her work is not only highly cited but also recognized for its direct applicability to NASA’s Artemis program and private-sector space initiatives, positioning her as a leading voice in the emerging field of off-world manufacturing.
Research Focus
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Top Papers
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