Chromatic 3D Materials 3D-Printed Rocket Propellant Tested at 1,800 PSI

Chromatic 3D Materials has successfully conducted static-fire tests on its 3D-printed rocket propellant. The company demonstrated that its additive manufacturing process can produce functional solid rocket propellant components. This achievement marks a significant step in validating the viability of the technology for aerospace applications.

Tests took place at the IS4S test range in Opekia, Alabama

The tests took place at the Integrated Solutions for Systems test range in Opekia, Alabama. The propellant withstood combustion pressures exceeding 1,800 PSI without suffering structural failure. The manufacturing method utilizes a proprietary Reactive Extrusion Additive Manufacturing platform. This process prints elastomeric materials and eliminates the need for mandrels and lengthy curing times found in traditional methods.

Chromatic 3D Materials claims the propellant achieves energetic loading levels comparable to top-performing conventional propellants. Dr. Cora Leibig stated that additive manufacturing can drive meaningful performance gains across at least 90 percent of the U.S. rocket arsenal. The technology allows for complex internal geometries that tailor thrust and reduce overall mass.

The company described the test results as a critical milestone in advancing resilient, next-generation propulsion manufacturing. The new process supports the production of lighter missiles and enables faster production rates. This development offers an alternative to established solid rocket manufacturing techniques that rely on more rigid structural constraints.