Toray selected by JAXA for on‑orbit 3D printing and advanced materials
- JAXA’s Space Strategy Fund (second phase) selected Toray to lead the subtheme 'Development of On‑Orbit Manufacturing and Assembly Technologies'.
- Toray will collaborate with Keio University, Aspect Inc. and S. lab to develop resin materials and additive manufacturing technologies for use in space.
- Work will adapt Toraypearl™ spherical polymer powder and Toraymill™ polyphenylene sulfide resin powder and target resistance to vacuum, temperature swings and radiation.
- Applications include short‑lead components for small satellites, repair parts for space stations, debris‑shield repairs, construction of large space structures and potential terrestrial deployment.
Program role
Toray was chosen under JAXA’s Space Strategy Fund (second phase) to lead the subtheme Development of On‑Orbit Manufacturing and Assembly Technologies, aiming to enable flexible, on‑demand production in space.
Consortium and responsibilities
Toray will manage the overall project and develop high‑performance resin materials and 3D printing feedstocks. Keio University will research precision 3D printing combining shape control in microgravity with robotics and added functionality. Aspect Inc. will adapt proven terrestrial technologies into 3D printing equipment for space. S. lab will participate in the collaborative development effort.
Technical focus
The project will build on Toray’s Toraypearl™ spherical polymer powder and Toraymill™ polyphenylene sulfide resin powder technologies to create materials and processes that withstand vacuum, temperature fluctuations, radiation and other space conditions.
Intended applications
On‑orbit manufacturing aims to reduce constraints of launch size, weight and lead time by producing short‑lead satellite components, station repair parts and debris‑shield repairs, and to support construction of larger space structures while offering advanced manufacturing use back on Earth.
Source: Toray