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Selected materials issues associated with Space Station
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1987
Year
EngineeringSpace EnvironmentOxidation ResistanceMaterial SelectionMaterial SystemChemical EngineeringCorrosionProtective CoatingMaterials EngineeringMaterials ScienceElectrical EngineeringThermal ProtectionSolar PowerThermal Barrier CoatingSpace Station HardwareAtomic OxygenSpace StationSpace Station ElementsMaterial Damage
Compatibility of Space Station hardware with the space environment is one of the major materials development issues. The projected long life of the Space Station elements (about 30 years for structural components and 20 years for power systems), the large number of day/night thermal cycles that have to be withstood during the life of the Station, and the effects of atomic oxygen and UV irradiation on exposed surfaces demand new considerations in selection of materials. Reaction efficiencies of materials for Space Station applications derived from LEO experiments are presented together with surface recession predictions for various Space Station components. Developments in the areas of protective coatings and of laboratory facilities for evaluating the effects of atomic oxygen are discussed.