Erosion theoretical and predictive models of atomic oxygen for space materials in low earh orbit

The interaction of an ambient atomic oxygen (AO) in the low earth orbit (LEO) space with spacecraft materials results in surface erosion and significantly affects on the performance of the materials. Up to now, the mechanism of the interaction of atomic oxygen with space materials has been investigated extensively. Accurate prediction of erosion effects on sensitive spacecraft materials in LEO due to atomic oxygen exposure can significantly aid designers in suitable selection of spacecraft materials. In this paper, the models developed recently to explain the interaction of atomic oxygen with space materials and to estimate the erosion rates have'been reviewed, and comments on every theoretical model have been proposed. It is suggested that the dynamic processes of the interaction of atomic oxygen with polymer surfaces may be investigated emphatically in the future.