The performance of selected polymeric materials exposed to low earth orbit

The behavior of several polymeric materials given various exposures in low Earth orbit was characterized by a number of analytical techniques including ultraviolet–visible and infrared spectroscopy, thermal analyses, selected microscopies, and solution property measurements. The materials were particularly susceptible to atomic oxygen-induced erosion, ultraviolet-induced degradation, and spacecraft-induced contamination. While no change was noted in glass transition temperature, various molecular weight parameters did change with exposure. The intent of the research is to enhance our funda- mental understanding of space environmental effects on polymeric materials and benefit our ability to predict and improve their performance in selected applications. © 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.