By the summer of 2027, a device for recycling 3D printing plastic waste into material for new products may appear on the International Space Station (ISS).
The initiative was discussed by representatives of the Rocket and Space Corporation Energia, the Cosmonaut Training Center, and the Skoltech Center for Materials Technologies. The "Rebirth" project aims to create a closed cycle of plastic recycling on board the station, but requires solving a number of organizational issues.
Ivan Sergeichev, Director of the Skoltech Center for Materials Technologies, noted that the main technological risks have already been eliminated, and the project is recognized as feasible. It is planned to create two working prototypes of the device within two years.
The device will recycle plastic products that have become unnecessary, damaged, or used for trial prints. Currently, for the operation of the 3D printer installed on the ISS in June 2022, spools of filament are delivered using Progress transport ships.
The new device will reduce filament delivery volumes by up to 50% by recycling waste. According to Sergeichev, the same plastic can be recycled up to four times.
Alexander Chernyavsky, Advisor to the General Director of RSC Energia, said that the device should be sent into orbit by mid-2027. Even if Russia does not extend its participation in the ISS project after 2028, the device will test the key plastic recycling technology in one year of operation. In the future, this technology is planned to be used on the prospective Russian Orbital Station.
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