MIT engineers have demonstrated the first fully 3D-printed, droplet-emitting electrospray engine. (Image: Courtesy of the researchers)

WHO

MIT engineers have demonstrated the first fully 3D-printed, droplet-emitting electrospray engine which can be produced rapidly and for a fraction of the cost of traditional thrusters.

WHAT

An electrospray engine applies an electric field to a conductive liquid, generating a high-speed jet of tiny droplets that can propel a spacecraft. These miniature engines are ideal for small satellites called CubeSats that are often used in academic research. To help break down barriers to space research, MIT engineers have demonstrated the first fully 3D-printed, droplet-emitting electrospray engine. Their device, which can be produced rapidly and for a fraction of the cost of traditional thrusters, uses commercially accessible 3D-printing materials and techniques. The devices could even be fully made in orbit, as 3D printing is compatible with in-space manufacturing. By developing a modular process that combines two 3D-printing methods, the researchers overcame the challenges involved in fabricating a complex device comprising macroscale and microscale components that must work together seamlessly. Their proof-of-concept thruster comprises 32 electrospray emitters that operate together, generating a stable and uniform flow of propellant. The 3D-printed device generated as much or more thrust than existing droplet-emitting electrospray engines. With this technology, astronauts might quickly print an engine for a satellite without needing to wait for one to be sent up from Earth.

The device requires a complex hydraulic system to store and regulate the flow of liquid, efficiently shuttling propellant through microfluidic channels to a series of emitters. (Image: Courtesy of the researchers)

WHERE

Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA

WHY

Ideal for propelling tiny satellites, the lightweight devices could be produced on board a spacecraft and cost much less than traditional thrusters.

WHEN

In the long run, the researchers hope to demonstrate a CubeSat that utilizes a fully 3D-printed electrospray engine during its operation and deorbiting.

For more information, contact Melanie Grados at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; 617-253-1682.

Topics:
Automation Motion Control Robotics

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