Dr. Kat Knauer is a polymer scientist dedicated to tackling plastic waste. She holds a BS in Chemical Engineering from Florida State University and a Ph.D. in Polymer Science from the University of Southern Mississippi. After working in circular materials at BASF and Novoloop Inc., she joined the National Renewable Energy Laboratory as a senior researcher. She also serves as an Assistant Adjoint Professor and RASEI Fellow at the University of Colorado, Boulder.

2025 NASA Symp

Recyclable-by-design, high performance polymers for long term space exploration

As humanity ventures further into space, sustainable resource management is essential. This talk explores material circularity—closed-loop systems where waste is recycled—enhanced by polymer synthesis. We’ll discuss the challenges of space conditions, such as microgravity and radiation, and the potential to engineer microbes that degrade plastics into feedstocks for in-situ material production. Highlighting current research, we’ll show how circular economy principles and polymer innovation can enable a resilient, self-sustaining spacefaring future.

2024 NASA Symp

As humanity ventures further into space exploration, there arises an urgent need to rethink our approach to resource utilization and management beyond the confines of Earth. The concept of material circularity, rooted in principles of sustainability and circular economy, presents a promising framework for achieving long-term viability in space endeavors. This talk will delve into the emerging paradigm of understanding material circularity in the context of space exploration. Firstly, we outline the challenges posed by finite resources and the environmental impact of traditional space missions, emphasizing the necessity for sustainable alternatives. We then elucidate the concept of material circularity, which advocates for closed-loop systems wherein resources are continuously recycled and reused, minimizing waste and reducing reliance on external inputs. Next, we discuss the unique considerations and constraints of applying circular economy principles in the extraterrestrial environment, including factors such as microgravity, extreme temperatures, and limited accessibility. Some of these challenges even prevent opportunities, such as the unique microbial evolution that occurs under microgravity and radiation that may be exploited to engineer microorganisms to digest plastics to produce new materials. Finally, we highlight ongoing research efforts, technological developments, and collaborative initiatives aimed at advancing the understanding and implementation of material circularity in space exploration. By embracing the principles of circular economy and integrating them into future space missions, we can pave the way towards a more sustainable and resilient spacefaring civilization.