Environmental Degradation Of Nano Enhanced Polymers In Low Earth Orbit

Satellites and space shuttles face severe environmental conditions like ultraviolet radiation and orbital debris when placed in low earth orbit. These harsh conditions could have a direct effect on spacecraft's materials. Since polymers are used extensively in this application, due to its unique properties, it is important to investigate the methods to protect these materials against harsh environment. One of the most degrading effects that polymers have to withstand is Atomic Oxygen (AO) which is the main degrading component in low earth orbit (LEO). The atmosphere in LEO is comprised of 96% atomic oxygen and orbits the earth at an approximate speed of 8 km/s which makes AO particles collide with a kinetic energy of approximately 5 eV, this energy is enough to facilitate the degradation of Kapton (R) polymer. In this paper, different polyimide-based nanocomposite materials are studied. Nano particles are used to enhance their performance against AO. Effect of glassification (plasma treatment is evaluated). Seven samples of the different chemical and composition and different plasma treatment levels (with or without) were subjected to AO erosion at Marshal Space Flight Center (MSFC). Effect of AO on the mass change and topography are investigated. Results show that the incorporation of polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) substantially enhanced the resistance against AO attack.