Abstract
Abstract Polymer matrix composites (PMCs) that exhibit high specific strength, high stiffness, and low coefficient of thermal expansion are widely used in spacecraft as structural materials and other components. The composites are therefore exposed to the harsh space environment which varies with the spacecraft's orbit, the mission duration, and the solar activity. The effects of the space environment components, such as, atomic oxygen, ionizing radiation, thermal cycling, and more, on PMCs are described. These effects are studied via ground simulation and on‐orbit materials' exposure. The reaction to the individual and synergistic effects is described. Also included are future expectations for improvement of materials' durability to the space environment mainly by the use of nanotechnology.
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