Multidisciplinary Oxygen Atom Erosion and Surface Characterization Studies of Polyhedral Oligomeric Silsesquioxane
Abstract
The objectives of this research project have been to characterize the degradation of various types of polymers under simulated space (low-earth orbit (LEO)) conditions and to develop polymers for spacecraft coatings which have improved survivability in LEO. Many polymers have been tested including kapton, polyethylene, fluoromers, polyhedral oligomeric silsequioxane (POSS)-containing copolymers and others. The testing was performed in an ultrahigh vacuum system which contained an atomic oxygen (AO) source and a vacuum ultraviolet (vuv) source. In some studies the polymers were also exposed to energetic electrons and ions. The chemical alterations occurring during the degradation was monitored using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). All polymers exhibit large chemical changes. The POSS-containing polymers are particularly interesting for space applications because they form a thin silica layer which protects the underlying polymer from further degradation.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 14, 2004
- Accession Number
- ADA429964
Entities
People
- Gar Holfund
Organizations
- University of Florida