Publication Date:
2019-07-13
Description:
Ion beam sputter-deposited thin films of Al2O3, SiO2, and a codeposited mixture of predominantly SiO2 with small amounts of a fluoropolymer were evaluated both in laboratory plasma ashing tests and in space on board shuttle flight STS-8 for effectiveness in preventing oxidation of polyimide Kapton. Measurements of mass loss and optical performance of coated and uncoated polyimide samples exposed to the low Earth orbital environment are presented. Optical techniques were used to measure loss rates of protective films exposed to atomic oxygen. Results of the analysis of the space flight exposed samples indicate that thin film metal oxide coatings are very effective in protecting the polyimide. Metal oxide coatings with a small amount of fluoropolymer codeposited have the additional benefit of great flexibility.
Keywords:
NONMETALLIC MATERIALS
Type:
NASA-TM-87051
,
E-2454
,
NAS 1.15:87051
,
Aerospace Sci. Meeting; Jan 14, 1985 - Jan 17, 1985; Reno, NV; United States
Format:
application/pdf
Permalink