Relativity Space new headquarters in Long Beach.

Relativity Space and 6K, which develops microwave plasma technology, have launched a sustainability partnership to create a closed-loop supply chain to process scrap materials. 

In a Tuesday announcement, the companies explained how the supply chain will work — 6K will use itsUniMelt proprietary process Relativity scrap materials into a certified powder that Relativity can then re-print in its additive manufacturing process. The agreement details a three-phase approach from a proof of concept to a Relativity printed part. They also plan to explore new materials for rocket manufacturing and space travel.

Relativity Space said that working with the 6K process ensures the company will have complete line of sight and control of its supply chain while ensuring certified additive manufacturing chemistry for production parts that are suitable for the rigors of a rocket launch and space travel.

“Relativity is completely reimagining the aerospace supply chain, by creating an autonomous robotic factory that can additively manufacture a rocket in 60 days. This partnering with 6K will add another important element to our very unique approach: the ability to reuse materials,” said Tim Ellis, CEO of Relativity. “We are looking forward to working with 6K to add this sustainability to our supply chain, while ensuring closed loop traceability all the way through.”

Last week, Relativity Space signed a Right of Entry agreement (RoE) with the U.S. Air Force’s 30th Space Wing in the first step to eventually launch rockets from Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, and announced a new launch contract with Iridium Communications to deliver ground spares in the Iridium NEXT’s constellation to orbit. 

In addition, Relativity Space recently appointment of Muhammad Shahzad as CFO, who most recently served as CFO of The Honest Company. Ellis said in a release that Shahzad’s experience in financial operations and investment banking, along with a background in growth-stage startups and strategy consulting, made him a good fit for Relativity.