STUDY OF ZIRCONIUM DIOXIDE WHITE PIGMENT FOR SPACE ENVIRONMENT.
Abstract
The properties of zirconium dioxide as a stable white pigment (low alpha/epsilon) for space application are investigated. First, the optical absorption of single crystals is studied, leading to the conclusion that a high degree of purity, except for hafnium, is essential for stable white pigment applications. A subsequent pigment preparation study and irradiation experiments with UV and 3-keV protons are described. The ZrO coatings initially have alpha < 0.11 and epsilon = 0.9. Overall radiation stability (UV and proton) is shown to be binder-dependent, with potassium silicate more stable than silicones. Potassium silicate coatings show Delta alpha = 0.06 after 2400 UV equivalent solar hours, and Delta alpha = 0.01 after irradiation with 3-keV H(+) and H2(+) to a fluence of 10 to the 16th particles/sq cm. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 31, 1970
- Accession Number
- AD0709204
Entities
People
- H. K. Alan Kan
- Robert J. Champetier
- Theodore G. Erler
Organizations
- The Aerospace Corporation