The document discusses the application of polymers in space technology, highlighting their essential properties such as thermal stability, radiation resistance, and lightweight characteristics. It details various uses of polymers in spacecraft, including materials for thermal insulation, structural components, and protective coatings. Additionally, it addresses the advantages, challenges, and considerations needed in choosing appropriate polymers for space applications.

1. INDIAN INSTITUTE OF CARPET TECHNOLOGY
(BHADOHI)
APPLICATION OF
POLYMER IN SPACE
PRESENTED BY
KULDEEP KUMAR
HARSH YADAV

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Introduction
•Polymers are crucial for lightweight, durable, and
protective spacecraft components.
•The introduction of polymers in space represents a
significant advancement in materials science and
engineering, providing critical solutions for the
unique challenges posed by the harsh environment
of space. Polymers, with their versatility and
adaptability, have become indispensable in various
space applications.

3. SPACE APPLICATION
• Thermal Blankets
• Thermal Control Paints
• Adhesives
• Electrical Components
• Helmets
• Structural Components
• Rovers and Landers
• Antenna and Communication Devices
• Space Suit Fabric
• And many others!

5. Key Properties of Polymers for Space Applications
1.Thermal Stability:
Polymers used in space must exhibit a range of specialized properties to withstand
extreme conditions, including:
The ability to endure extreme temperatures, both
high and low.
2.Radiation Resistance: Resilience against high levels of ionizing
radiation encountered in space.
3.Mechanical Strength: Sufficient strength and durability to handle the
stresses of launch, microgravity, and space
operations
4.Lightweight: A high strength-to-weight ratio to minimize
launch costs and improve efficiency.
5.Chemical Resistance:Resistance to outgassing and chemical reactions
with the space environment.

6. Structural Components:
Composites:
Carbon fiber-reinforced polymers (CFRPs) are used in satellite structures, spacecraft
components, and space station modules due to their high strength and low weight.
• Materials
• Carbon-fiber reinforced polymers
(CFRP)
• Kevlar
• Application
s
• Satellite structural components
• Spacecraft frames and
supports
• Advantages
• High strength-to-weight ratio
• Reduced launch costs

7. Thermal Insulation:
Polymers like polyimide films (Kapton) are used for thermal insulation,
protecting spacecraft from the intense heat and cold of space.
1.Electrical Insulation
• Materials
• Polyimides (e.g., Kapton)
• Fluoropolymers (e.g.,
Teflon)
• Applications
• Insulation for wiring and cabling
• Circuit board substrates
• Properties-High dielectric strength and thermal stability

8. 2.Thermal Protection Systems (TPS)
• Materials
• Polyimides (e.g., Kapton)
• Phenolic resins
• Ablative materials (e.g., phenolic impregnated carbon ablator - PICA)
• Applications
• Heat shields
• Insulation
blankets
• Properties
• Protect spacecraft during re-entry
• Maintain internal temperature stability

9. 2.Protective Coatings:
• Radiation Shields:
Polymers incorporated with metal particles or other radiation-absorbing materials
provide protection from cosmic radiation.
• Materials:
• Polyethylene
• Hydrogen-rich polymers (e.g., polyethylene composites)
• Applications:
• Space suits
• Advantages
• Effective in shielding against cosmic
rays
• Reduces radiation exposure to astronauts

10. Flexibility and Durability in Mechanisms
• Materials:
• Elastomers (e.g., silicone rubber, fluorosilicone)
• Thermoplastic polymers (e.g., PEEK - polyether ether ketone)
• Applications:
• Seals and gaskets
• Flexible joints and bellows
• Benefits:
• High durability in extreme temperatures
• Maintains elasticity in vacuum conditions

11. Specific Polymers
• PEI/PE: Polyetherimide/Polycarbonate
• TOR:Triton Atomic Oxygen Resistance
• Sodium Polyacrylate
• And More!

12. PEI/PC: Polyetherimide/Polycarbonate
• Resistant to high heat, solvents, and flames
• Exhibits high dielectric strength, thermal conductivity, and
tensile strength
• Utilized in the production of satellites and external hardware
• Demonstrated 3D printability aboard the ISS in 2017
• One of the rare 3D printable aerospace-grade plastics available
• Enables the creation of tools, spare parts, repairs, and structures
on-site and on demand

13. TOR: Triton Atomic Oxygen Resistant
• Created in 1999 by Triton Systems
• Designed to shield against erosion from atomic oxygen
and radiation
• Offers a survival period ten times longer than alternative
polymers
• Includes Phosphorus for enhanced resistance
• Phosphorus and Oxygen combine to form a protective
phosphate layer
• Durable barrier leads to cost savings by reducing repairs
and replacements
• Additionally, serves as outstanding high-voltage insulators

14. Sodium Polyacrylate
• Super Absorbent Polymer (SAP)
• Utilized in NASA's Maximum Absorbency Garment (space
diaper)
• Has the ability to absorb 400 times its weight in water
• Enables MAG to absorb up to 2 liters of liquid, requiring
astronauts to change every 8-10 hours
• NASA was not the originator of disposable diapers, adult
diapers, sodium polyacrylate, or SAPS

15. Other Useful
Polymers
• Velcro was created by Swiss scientists for easy to use
in zero gravity.
• Teflon, developed by Dupont, is utilized in heat
shields, space suits, and cargo hold liners.
• Teflon is most famous for its application in nonstick
pans.

16. Advantages of Using Polymers in Space
Application
• Lightweight
:
In space applications, weight reduction is crucial for minimizing
launch costs.
• Flexibility and Durability
Polymers can endure the mechanical stresses and temperature extremes of space
travel.
• Versatility:
Polymers can be engineered to meet a wide range of specific needs, from insulation
to structural strength.
• Ease of Fabrication:
Polymers can be easily molded and fabricated into complex shapes, which is
beneficial for designing and manufacturing spacecraft components.

17. Challenges and Considerations
• Outgassing:
Some polymers release gases in the vacuum of space, which can contaminate
sensitive equipment. Careful selection and pre-treatment of materials are
necessary to mitigate this issue.
• Radiation Resistance:
Prolonged exposure to space radiation can degrade some polymers. Materials
must be chosen and tested for their radiation resistance properties.
• Temperature Extremes:
Polymers must withstand the extreme temperatures of space without becoming
brittle or degrading.