Research Status and Prospects of In-space Additive Manufacturing

doi:10.3901/JME.2025.23.217

Abstract

Abstract: In-space additive manufacturing (ISAM) is considered a key technology for achieving deep space exploration, efficient utilization of space resources and long-term habitation on extraterrestrial bodies. When compared to conventional terrestrial additive manufacturing, the development of ISAM technology is uniquely challenged by the space environment, which is characterized by high vacuum, intense radiation, microgravity and extreme temperature variations. Breakthroughs are required in equipment compatibility, process control, raw material selection and other aspects. ISAM research is currently focused on two cutting-edge fields: On-orbit manufacturing and surface construction on extraterrestrial bodies. Various types of forming processes, including materialextrusion, directed energy deposition, powder bed fusion, stereolithography and computational axial lithography, are being developed. The current research status and development trends of ISAM technology are reviewed, with comparisons made between the process principles and characteristics of various ISAM technologies. Typical microgravity verification platforms and their testing methods are summarized. Cases of ISAM technology research and application in actual space environments are outlined. The significant challenges and potential opportunities faced in the development of ISAM technology are analyzed and key directions for future research are anticipated.

Key words: in-space additive manufacturing, in-space 3D printing, on-orbit manufacturing, Lunar construction, Mars construction

CLC Number:

ZHENG Yang, ZHAO Cenya, XIONG Ruize, NIU Wei, CHENG Fang, LIU Wei, ZANG Libin. Research Status and Prospects of In-space Additive Manufacturing[J]. Journal of Mechanical Engineering, 2025, 61(23): 217-239.

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