US-based Relativity Space, the world’s first ‘autonomous rocket factory and launch services leader’ for satellites, has agreed a strategic partnership to ‘prove true sustainability in additive manufacturing (AM) production’ with 6K, a leading developer of microwave plasma technology for the production of advanced materials used in AM, lithium-ion batteries and other industrial markets.

The partnership is intended to create a closed-loop supply chain whereby certified scrap materials produced at Relativity are turned by 6K into powder that can then be re-printed. The two companies will also create new materials for ‘rocket manufacturing and space travel’.

Relativity CEO Tim Ellis said: “We are completely re-imagining the aerospace supply chain by creating an autonomous robotic factory that can 3-D print a rocket in 60 days. This partnering with 6K will add another important element to our approach — the ability to re-use materials.”

Dr Aaron Bent, 6K CEO, said: “Our ability to turn Relativity Space's used powder and parts into premium powder through the UniMelt process provides them with a sustainable source for AM powder.”

As part of the collaboration, the two companies have signed an agreement detailing a three-phase approach from a proof of concept all the way through to a Relativity 3-D printed part.

Working with the 6K process ensures Relativity will have ‘complete line of sight and control’ of its supply chain while ensuring certified AM chemistry for production parts that are suitable for the rigors of a rocket launch and space travel.

Dr Bent added: “Creating high-quality additive powders from something that was previously viewed as machine scrap demonstrates that the process significantly contributes to a circular economy and positions Relativity and 6K as pioneers of sustainability in AM production.”