The document discusses the application of polymers in space technology, highlighting their essential properties such as thermal stability, radiation resistance, and mechanical strength. It lists various applications including thermal blankets, electrical components, and structural components, emphasizing materials like carbon fiber-reinforced polymers and polyimide films. The document also addresses the advantages of using polymers, including their lightweight nature and versatility, along with challenges like outgassing and radiation resistance.

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

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Introduction
• Due to harsh environment of the space, there is a
very limited choice of materials to be used in space
applications.
• Polymers, with their versatility and adaptability,
have become indispensable in space.
• Polymers, due to their lightweight, durability, and
specific performance ability are used in space
applications.

3. SPACE APPLICATIONS
• Thermal Blankets
• Thermal Control Paints
• Adhesives
• Electrical Components
• Helmets
• Structural Components
• Rovers and Landers
• Antenna and Communication Devices
• Space Suit Fabric

5. Key Properties of Polymers for Space Applications
Polymers used in space must exhibit a range of specialized properties to withstand
extreme conditions, including:
1.Thermal Stability: 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:
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:
•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
 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
• Sodium Polyacrylate
• Velcro
• Teflon

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
• 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. 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
Other 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.
• Teflon is most famous polymer for its application in nonstick pans.

14. 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.

15. 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.