Braskem Project to Take Plastic Recycling into Space

For the first time in the history of space missions, technology will allow for the recycling of the material in zero gravity conditions

First, the I’m green™ Plastic arrived in space in 2016, to be used in the 3D printing of tools by astronauts at the International Space Station (ISS). What is new is that, starting in 2018, these same astronauts will be able to use a plastic object and packaging recycler to increase the autonomy of space missions.

The good news is the result of an expansion of the project “Printing the Future,” which involves a partnership between Braskem and Made In Space, a North American company considered a leader in the development of 3D printers for zero gravity operation and a NASA supplier. This will be the first commercial plastic recycling operation in the history of space missions.

“Taking the first plastic recycler into space gives us a reason to be proud,” said Patrick Teyssonneyre, Director of Innovation and Technology at Braskem. “This is the second step of our partnership with Made In Space, through which we plan to close the plastic cycle in a sustainable way: from green polyethylene production through sugarcane to polymer recycling,” he added.

For Andrew Rush, CEO of Made in Space, the recycler and 3D printer will form a package in the future that will boost the autonomy and sustainability of long-duration missions. “Food packaging, for example, can be reused for the production of objects that are useful to astronauts instead of being discarded,” said Rush.

The plans are for the recycler to reach the station during the second half of 2018 and complete the sustainable plastic cycle during space operations. The invention will help cut the costs of space missions and reduce the weight transported from Earth.

How Will the Recycler Work?

Wecycle Platform