Made In Space is developing a tough plastic that will enable astronauts to create tools for use in the harsh conditions of space. 

Down here on planet Earth, 3D printing technology has emerged as a useful tool for a plethora of applications. But many thinkers and tinkerers see the most potential for this technology beyond our orbit, particularly on the International Space Station.

The in-space manufacturing startup Made In Space has driven 3D printing innovation within the space station. Last year, the company sent the ISS its first commercial 3D printer, allowing astronauts to produce tools and replacement parts onsite.

However, these 3D printed objects have been limited in functionality, primarily due to the harsh conditions of space. This means that most 3D printable plastics can’t handle the stress from the harsh environment outside of the ISS.

Made In Space Creates New Plastic for Outer Space Use

Made In Space is currently developing a material made from polyetherimide/polycarbonate  (also known as PEI/PC). This 3D printable plastic will help ISS astronauts produce tools that they can use during spacewalks.

Due to the harsh conditions that exist in the vacuum of space, most 3D printed tools are restricted to use within the space station. However, the material created by Made In Space is several times stronger than the plastics currently printed on the ISS.

Outside of printing stronger and more versatile tools, the PEI/PC material can also print spare exterior parts for the ISS. Previously, the space station’s 3D printer was working with ABS and Green PE.

“In a vacuum, is not going to , it is resistant to the UV environment, it is resistant to atomic oxygen, so it can perform actual uses in space,” said Matt Napoli, the vice president of Made In Space.

In the future, the startup plans to 3D print small satellites in-situ and launch them directly from the ISS. Made In Space is already developing the Archinaut, a 3D printer that will construct entire satellites in space. The company plans to send this machine to the ISS in 2018, and will likely use the tough PEI/PC plastic material to manufacture these space capsules.

Source: Popular Mechanics