Nandina targets new space uses with recycled carbon fibre
Singapore-based Nandina REM is bringing circular carbon fibre into the space sector. Through a new strategic alliance with US space systems company Odyssey Space, the company will supply high-purity recycled carbon materials. The partnership targets next-generation spacecraft, orbital research platforms and advanced space infrastructure. It marks a move towards greater circularity in the growing commercial space sector.
Recovering space-grade materials
Odyssey Space has secured access to Nandina REM’s circular carbon and phenolic felt materials for aerospace applications. The companies will explore opportunities in thermal protection systems, lightweight structures and orbital research infrastructure. These areas require materials that combine strength, low weight and reliable performance. Traditionally, space-grade carbon and phenolic materials have been expensive and difficult to source.
Nandina REM recovers carbon fibre from retired aircraft using proprietary technology. The process maintains aerospace-grade mechanical properties while reducing production costs. The company says recycled carbon fibre can help create a more resilient supply chain. It also provides a lower-cost alternative for emerging space applications.
Nandina REM currently recycles around 40 aircraft annually. It aims to double the figure this year before increasing to 100 aircraft thereafter. The start-up has secured multiple investments to support its growth in advanced materials recycling. The latest funding round secured EUR 88,000 from the Temasek Foundation, enabling the recycler to announce Singapore’s first commercially scaled carbon fibre production facility in February.
The new facility is designed to serve aerospace, defence, energy and unmanned systems markets. It can treat up to five tonnes of carbon fibre sheets monthly. Company CEO Karina Cady says this capacity could produce components for hundreds of large uncrewed aerial systems or thousands of smaller drones. Global recognition for these types of industry leaders often follows such significant operational milestones.
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Meeting orbital demands
Commercial space activities are expanding beyond satellite deployment. New applications include microgravity manufacturing, life sciences research and advanced materials development. The partnership comes as the industry looks for ways to lower costs without sacrificing reliability.
This arrangement reflects a broader shift in how advanced materials are sourced. As demand for space-based research environments grows, traditional supply chains face pressure to adapt. By using recovered fibre, companies can potentially reduce lead times and material costs. This approach might become increasingly important as orbital infrastructure becomes more complex.
‘This agreement demonstrates that circular materials can meet the rigid performance standards required for deep-tech infrastructure,’ Cady notes. ‘Odyssey Space provides the advanced design and technical execution necessary to integrate our high-purity circular materials into future orbital platforms.’
Odyssey Space believes the agreement could reduce material procurement barriers for commercial partners. This reduction in barriers could accelerate access to space-based research environments. So far, Nandina REM reports its recycling activities have diverted aviation materials equivalent to 280 tonnes of CO₂. The company also cites a 71% energy reduction compared with producing virgin carbon fibre.
