3D printing of flexible electronics for in-space manufacturing and investigations via microgravity parabolic flight tests

The 3D printing of flexible electronics for in-space manufacturing and investigations via microgravity parabolic flight tests experiment will test electrohydrodynamic (EHD) inkjet printing in reduced and microgravity environments. Electrohydrodynamic inkjet printing is a novel type of inkjet printing where, unlike traditional thermal or acoustic inkjet printing, a high electrical force is used for the ink to overcome surface tension at the tip of micro nozzles, potentially enabling a gravity-free 3D printing technique.

The 3D Printing of Flexible Electronics for In-Space Manufacturing and Investigations via Microgravity Parabolic Flight Tests project is designed to determine if a 3D printing technology based on electrohydrodynamic inkjet printing using electrical fields and forces can function in a gravity-free environment. The goal is to develop a versatile additive manufacturing system that can fabricate electronic devices in a microgravity environment. If successful, this effort may help NASA meet its goal of providing a solution for in-space sensor fabrication to the International Space Station by 2025. This has the potential to benefit the commercial space industry and other government agencies.

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 6) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.

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