America Makes Selects EOS and 6K Additive for Sustainability and Environmental Benefits Project in Additive Manufacturing!

In a significant push towards sustainable manufacturing, 6K Additive, a division of 6K, along with project lead EOS, has been selected for the America Makes sustainability and environmental benefits project for Additive Manufacturing (AM). This initiative, backed by $2.1 million in fundingfrom the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering’s (OSD(R&E)) Manufacturing Technology Office, focuses on advancing sustainable production methods for aerospace and defense applications.

The project brings together industry leaders and academic institutions, including Texas A&M University, 3Degrees, Wichita State University, and the National Institute for Aviation Research (NIAR). The focus is to develop and demonstrate eco-friendly AM practices through material selection, development, handling, and recycling, aligning with the core mission of 6K Additive and EOS.

“When it became time to decide on a material development partner for this project, 6K Additive was quickly identified as a frontrunner,” said Jon Walker, Government Relations & Key Account Manager at EOS. “Their expertise in sustainable materials and track record of supporting grant projects within the Department of Defense (DoD) community made them the clear choice.”

6K Additive is uniquely positioned to contribute to this initiative, utilizing its cutting-edge UniMelt® microwave plasma reactors—a patented technology designed for sustainable production. According to an independent Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) study by Foresight Management, 6K Additive’s titanium powder production process consumes 73% less energy and results in a 78% reduction in carbon emissions compared to conventional methods.

“We are truly excited to be selected again by America Makes and to collaborate with EOS and our other esteemed partners,” said Frank Roberts, President of 6K Additive. “EOS and 6K Additive share a strong commitment to sustainability in AM, and this project further proves that our UniMelt®-produced powders offer the best environmental benefits in the industry.”

6K Additive is the first producer of premium AM powder sourced from highly sustainable materials, offering a full range of nickel, titanium, copper, stainless steel, and refractory metal powders such as tungsten, niobium, and rhenium. The UniMelt® process ensures:

• Spheroidized metal powders with controlled chemistry and porosity.
• Zero contamination and high throughput production.
• Massive reductions in energy consumption and carbon footprint—validated by independent studies.

This collaboration between 6K Additive, EOS, and America Makes underscores the industry’s growing emphasis on environmentally responsible manufacturing. The project aims to set new benchmarks for sustainability in aerospace and defense AM production, offering a blueprint for the future of green, high-performance additive manufacturing.