On-Demand Polymer Materials for Sustainability and Space.

Production of polymer material goods on-demand is a recurring science fiction element, but advances in chemistry and engineering have pushed it closer to reality. Experienced at a hobby scale by 3D printing enthusiasts and at an industrial level through rapid prototyping and modular manufacturing, the approach is on its way to further flexibility and high-performance material production. We review the advances in on-demand materials design as well as manufacturing, using examples in space exploration and sustainability, because these are cases where the value proposition for rapid changes in materials is strong. Despite the promising technological base for on-demand production, challenges still exist for commercial viability. We thus also review business strategy and private and public policy considerations for transitioning polymer materials markets to on-demand production. Combined analysis of the chemistry, manufacturing, and business/policy advances provides a more comprehensive picture of the status and remaining challenges.