A first 3D printer will be created using polymer materials for the Russian section of the International Space Station. According to the TASS news agency, this is based on the words of Igor Potashny, director of Roscosmos’ research and analytical centre.
“At the initial stage, it will be some kind of polymer materials that are simple”– Mr. Potashny responded to a question about the raw materials to be used in experiments on 3D printing at the ISS.
Head of the research and analysis center said that future experiments could be conducted on the formation of necessary materials, including for planetary activities. It was earlier reported that the 3D printer, designed by engineers from Energia Rocket and Space Corporation is to be delivered to orbit on the Progress MS-20 cargo ship. This launch is set for June 3.
Oleg Artemiev, Denis Matveev, and Denis Matveev will conduct the first 3D printing experiments on the ISS. To analyze the samples and identify their features, they will be later returned to Earth. Astronauts will be able, according to data, to use a 3D Printer to create covers for different nomenclature, research knives, wrenches and other products.