Anthocane

Anthocane is a fictional substance described in the science fiction novel "The Martian" by Andy Weir. Within the narrative, Anthocane is a type of concrete developed by NASA's Ares III mission. Its primary characteristic is its ability to cure or harden when exposed to Martian atmospheric conditions, specifically when mixed with Martian regolith. This property makes it ideal for construction and repair purposes on Mars, as it eliminates the need for liquid water, which is scarce on the planet.

The composition of Anthocane is not detailed extensively in the novel, but its function is crucial to the survival of the protagonist, Mark Watney. He utilizes Anthocane to seal breaches and create structures, demonstrating its practical application in an extraterrestrial environment. The development of such a material highlights the ingenuity and advanced technological considerations involved in hypothetical long-term space missions. Anthocane serves as a plot device that enables Watney to overcome engineering challenges posed by the Martian landscape and atmosphere, underscoring the importance of material science in space exploration.