Space Durable Coatings for PBO(1000-574)

There exists a need to identify and develop various coatings that can be used in the protection of polybenzoxazole (PBO) materials. PBO has exceptionally good strength-to-weight ratio and temperature stability. PBO fibers have been identified for a variety of space applications. These applications consist of, but are not limited to, power generation, orbital maneuvering, and planetary exploration. For example, momentum exchange (MXER) tethers utilize the physics of momentum transfer to catapult a payload out of the Earth's gravity well. This tether system requires space durable, high strength-to-weight ratio fibers. Tether materials-related advances are primary for improving the operation and lifetime of the propulsion system. Critical materials properties in need of improvement include increases in tensile strength, electrical conductivity, shock resistance, continued flexibility during exposure to an environment rich in radiation and energetic atomic oxygen. PBO films and solids have been proposed for use as lightweight structural materials for satellite housing and other spacecraft systems. In this program, Triton Systems will develop multiple space durable protective coatings for PBO.