To make Mars Sand, ordinary sand is coated with tiny particles of pure silica to make it repel water. The sand is exposed to the vapors of a compound called trimethylhydroxysilane {or (CH3)3SiOH}, the Trimethylsilane bonds with the silica particles and covers the exterior surface of the sand grains. As a result, the sand grains become "hydrophobic" or "water fearing". This means that Mars Sand stays dry even under water.
Mars Sand was first invented to aid in the cleanup of oily contaminants in water. Oil will bond with the sand particles and clump for easy clean up. Mars sand has even been tested successfully my utility companies in the Arctic. Junction boxes buried in Mars Sand are easily accessed for repairs because dry Mars Sand never freezes. Mars Sand is also used effectively as an aerating medium for potted plants. Water and air are better able to move freely around plants' roots, resulting in healthier plants.
