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Advantages and challenges of novel materials for future space applications
Full text linkIn the last years space technologies have made giant leaps, increasing the feasibility of human exploration and colonization of other celestial bodies. The Moon and Mars have become appealing in these terms, but autonomy, adaptability and high reliability are inevitably needed in long-term missions. Furthermore, new generation spacecraft will have to face challenges related to the degradation of materials and the continuous exposure to the threats of space environment. Novel materials and technologies must hence be developed to satisfy future missions requirements. This paper aims at giving a clear and organic overview of the describes the most significant innovations in the field of materials for space applications, along with the related advantages and challenges. After introducing the main environmental factors in space and their possible risks and effects on materials, the authors proceed with the description of novel materials for space applications, subdivided into polymers, metals, semiconductors, composites, and mixtures. Innovations in manufacturing techniques and in-situ resource utilization are also briefly presented before moving to final considerations on the limitations and future challenges for these innovative materials
Multifunctional composites with self-healing and radiation shielding properties for space applications
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Experimental Characterization of Self-Healing Nanocomposite and Multilayer Samples for Space Applications
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Self-Healing Multilayer Composites and Nanocomposites for Space Applications: a Study on Damage Recovery Performance after Simulated Space Radiation Exposure
No full textIn recent decades, the possibility of integrating self-healing materials into inflatable and deployable space structures has drawn the attention of the scientific community. This solution would make human activity in space safer and increase spacecraft operational life and autonomy. Nevertheless, the action of space environment may deteriorate these materials. The presented work analyzes the autonomous repair ability of candidate self-healing polymers, used as nanocomposite matrices or coupled with an elastomer or aramid fabric into a multilayer. Self-healing is evaluated through in-situ flow rate measurements after puncture damage. In the multilayer case, the tests are then repeated on gamma-ray irradiated samples to study the variation of self-repairing and functional properties after exposure to simulated space radiation. Results show higher repair ability in systems with lower viscous response, and decreased healing performance in the irradiated samples, hence requiring a further analysis of the effects of space environment on the presented materials
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