Carbon Nanocomposites in Aerospace Technology: A Way to Protect Low-Orbit Satellites

Abstract

Recent advancements in space technology and reduced launching cost led companies, defence and government organisations to turn their attention to low Earth orbit (LEO) and very low Earth orbit (VLEO) satellites, for they offer significant advantages over other types of spacecraft and present an attractive solution for observation, communication and other tasks. However, keeping satellites in LEO and VLEO presents a unique set of challenges, in addition to those typically associated with exposure to space environment such as damage from space debris, thermal fluctuations, radiation and thermal management in vacuum. The structural and functional elements of LEO and especially VLEO satellites are significantly affected by residual atmosphere and, in particular, atomic oxygen (AO). At VLEO, the remaining atmosphere is dense enough to create significant drag and quicky de-orbit satellites; thus, thrusters are needed to keep them on a stable orbit. Atomic oxygen-induced material erosion is another key challenge to overcome during the design phase of LEO and VLEO spacecraft. This review covered the corrosion interactions between the satellites and the low orbit environment, and how it can be minimised through the use of carbon-based nanomaterials and their composites. The review also discussed key mechanisms and challenges underpinning material design and fabrication, and it outlined the current research in this area.

Визначення Технологічних Параметрів Лазерного Випромінення Для Отримання Субмікро- Та Наноструктур У Зміцнювальних Покриттях На Сталях

“…Існують різноманітні методи отримання наноструктурованих матеріалів, такі як електрохімічні [6], плазмові [7], лазерні [8] та інші [9]. Особливо цікавими є іонно-плазмові методи, які можуть використовуватися для формування тонких поверхневих або багатошарових наноструктур і для модифікації поверхневих шарів матеріалів [10]. Наукові дослідження постійно розширюють можливості вакуумно-дугових нанотехнологій.…”

Effect of Thermal Activation on the Structure and Electrochemical Properties of Carbon Material Obtained from Walnut Shells

“…Modified PCM is used as electrodes in electrochemical power sources, sorbents, membranes, screens for absorbing electromagnetic radiation, and components in radio and electrical engineering. Additionally, carbon nanomaterials are currently employed in the thermal protection systems of spacecraft, airplanes, and rockets, contributing to the production of their nose and engine components [ 32 , 33 , 34 ].…”

Nanomaterials for Potential Uses in Extraterrestrial Environments

“…[23], but could be exploited for corrosion mitigation in space thanks to their peculiar features [24]. A comprehensive discussion of the pathways responsible for material degradation in the LEO environment is reported in the review by Weerasinghe et al [25], which also focuses on the findings from state-of-the-art in-flight and simulated experiments involving carbon nanocomposites for aerospace technology.…”