Session: Research Posters

Paper Number: 167194

Long-Term Radiation Durability of High-Strength Polyethylene for Space Missions 

Ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) and graphene nanocomposites (PE/graphene) are emerging as promising materials for space applications due to their excellent mechanical properties and low density. Compared to conventional space-grade polymer films, such as CP1 used in existing solar sail missions, UHMWPE-based composites exhibit significantly higher tensile strength and durability while maintaining flexibility. These properties make them particularly attractive for applications requiring lightweight and strong materials, including space structures, protective coatings, and deployable thin-film systems.

One of the major challenges facing polymer materials in space is their degradation under long-term radiation exposure. Spacecraft materials are constantly exposed to high-energy charged particles, ultraviolet (UV) radiation, and atomic oxygen, all of which contribute to structural weakening, embrittlement, and chemical degradation over time. Understanding the long-term stability of UHMWPE/graphene composites under these extreme conditions is critical to determining their viability for future missions.

In this study, the University of Notre Dame, in collaboration with Utah State University, conducted a comprehensive evaluation of the radiation stability of PE/graphene nanocomposites under simulated space conditions. The materials were exposed to UV (>600 J/cm²) and beta radiation (>2.5 kGy @ 80 keV and 0.2–2.5 MeV) to evaluate their long-term durability. The UV exposure was designed to replicate the effects of long-term solar radiation on polymer films, which can lead to surface oxidation and embrittlement. The beta radiation test simulated high-energy electron interactions that are common in low-Earth orbit (LEO) and can cause displacement damage, altering mechanical properties.

Our results demonstrate how highly crystalline PE/graphene composites can resist radiation environments. The low density of UHMWPE, combined with the reinforcement provided by graphene, enhances its ability to withstand mechanical stress and thermal cycling in space environments. Additionally, the ability to fabricate these films in thinner configurations without compromising strength is particularly advantageous for applications where mass reduction is critical. This reduction in material mass can significantly lower launch costs and increase payload efficiency, making the material highly suitable for next-generation spacecraft and planetary exploration missions.

These results suggest that UHMWPE/graphene nanocomposites have strong potential for future space missions, including use in solar sails, drag sails, and lightweight spacecraft structures. Further research will focus on optimizing the material's formulation, investigating its performance under atomic oxygen exposure, and conducting long-term in-orbit qualification tests to confirm its viability under real space conditions. Additionally, expanding the scope of radiation testing to include gamma rays and proton exposure will provide a more comprehensive understanding of the material’s behavior in space.

Presenting Author: Seunghyun Moon University of Notre Dame

Presenting Author Biography: Dr. Seunghyun Moon is an Assistant Research Professor in the Department of Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering at the University of Notre Dame. He received his Ph.D. in Nanoscience and Technology from Seoul National University. His research expertise spans light-matter interaction, nanofabrication, bio-sensing, polymer engineering, and their applications in advanced materials and space technologies. His previous work demonstrated the application of the SSBD process for biomaterial sensing without inducing photo-thermal damage. Additionally, his recent study utilized chemical identification techniques to unveil the morphological characteristics of nanoplastics in marine environments. His research in polymer engineering and applications focuses on developing high-performance polymer nanocomposites for extreme environments, including radiation-resistant materials for space exploration and next-generation sensing platforms.

Authors:

Seunghyun Moon University of Notre Dame
Achal Duhoon Utah State University
Zhongtian Gu University of Notre Dame
J. R. Dennison Utah State University
Tengfei Luo University of Notre Dame