Satellite launch services company Relativity Space and microwave plasma technology developer 6K have announced a partnership for the development of space rocket components made from sustainable materials.
Under the strategic partnership, the companies will create a closed-loop supply chain to convert certified scrap materials produced at Relativity into powder by 6K. Relativity will in turn reprint the powder.
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The companies will also explore new materials created specifically for rocket manufacturing and space travel.
Relativity Space CEO Tim Ellis said: “Relativity is completely reimagining the aerospace supply chain, by creating an autonomous robotic factory that can additively manufacture a rocket in 60 days.
“This partnering with 6K will add another important element to our very unique approach: the ability to reuse materials. We are looking forward to working with 6K to add this sustainability to our supply chain while ensuring closed-loop traceability all the way through.”
Under the collaboration, Relativity and 6K also signed an agreement that details a three-phase approach from a proof of concept all the way through a Relativity printed part.
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By GlobalDataAs part of the project, scrap material produced at Relativity will be directly collected and 6K’s UniMelt proprietary process will be used to deliver certified powder to a final printed part that will be suitable for Relativity’s production.
6K CEO Dr Aaron Bent said: “Relativity is pushing the boundaries of additive manufacturing by 3D printing a complete rocket and we see this partnership as a natural extension of their forward-thinking practice.
“Our ability to turn their used powder and parts into premium powder through the UniMelt process provides them with a sustainable source for AM powder.”
Last month, Iridium Communications signed a contract with Relativity Space to deploy satellites to orbit.
