NASA Develops New Material for In-Space Manufacturing

• Researchers at NASA's Glenn Research Center have developed a new material made from biodegradable plastic and simulated lunar or Martian dust that could be used for on-site manufacturing during space missions.
• The material aims to reduce the weight of supplies launched from Earth and enable crews to fabricate or repair essential equipment like brackets, wrenches, and furniture.

Material Development

• The project is led by chemical engineer Allison Christy with a team of summer interns.
• The plastic component is produced by bacteria that consume crew waste or carbon dioxide.
• Integrating dust particles significantly improves the strength and processability of the material, with specific dust types and amounts used to customize properties.

Current Testing and Future Objectives

• Material samples are being tested in extreme temperatures at the Glenn Lunar Environment Structural Test Rig.
• Samples are slated to fly on the MISSE-23 mission to be exposed to intense space conditions outside the International Space Station.
• The goal is to support the creation of a permanent Moon base by maximizing on-demand, recyclable manufacturing.