re:3D Inc. proposes developing a recycling system centered on a 3D printer capable of turning thermoplastic waste generated on orbit into functional and useful objects through the use of material extrusion additive manufacturing (AM). Guided by the analysis of available on-orbit waste streams and their potential printability, a low size, weight and power (SWaP) engineering prototype printer, based on re:3D's Gigabot X (GBX) technology, will be designed and demonstrated. The GBX is a commercial printer capable of printing directly from ground plastic flakes. Printing from flake eliminates the need for the extra space, resources and energy required for an intermediate step of producing filament - the most common approach to recycling plastics for 3D printing. In addition to the prototype printer demonstration, re:3D will deliver the engineering specifications for a low-SWaP integrated recycling system to include waste granulation and other required steps in the waste-to-print AM process. Anticipated
Benefits: NASA
Benefits: NASA has specifically identified packaging material as an upmass of significant logistical overhead. This material is placed in orbit at appreciable cost, and its reuse through recycling must be considered - particularly for lunar and deep space missions which have limited opportunities for resupply and waste disposal. Off-planet human habitation will require point-of-use recycling/upcycling solutions which can be provided by additive manufacturing technologies. Non-NASA
Benefits: A waste-to-print system integrated in a small form factor would be of use to US Navy submarines on active deployment which can be away from supply and repair opportunities for months at a time. Such a system could also be of interest to individuals and families looking for a personal recycling solution, reducing the carbon footprint of recycled goods by removing the need for transporting waste materials between multiple processing plants.
