With the vast distances involved, any manned mission to Mars won’t be able to haul substantial solid buildings to another planet. The easiest solution would be to use what’s already there. Researchers from Kharazmi University in Tehran, Iran explored several possible materials. Their findings were published in the journal Acta Astronautica. An excerpt from the report reads:

“Although it is a bit strange, blood can be utilized to create strong concrete or bricks for onsite construction on Mars. After the arrival of the first Martian inhabitants and their placement in primary structures, which can include inflatable structures, the combination of tears, blood, and sweat from the inhabitants, along with Martian regolith, can be used to produce a concrete known as AstroCrete. The production process is simple.”. //

The researchers note that ancient Romans used animal blood to reinforce their mortar. However, AstroCrete has some issues. Living on Mars will be a physical challenge and forcing astronauts to constantly donate blood would hamper progress on all other projects on the Martian surface. Also, the material’s low density would offer lackluster protection against cosmic radiation.