Low-Cost, Lightweight Doped Polymer Coatings For Microelectronics Via 3D Printing

Ionizing radiation in space can damage sensitive electronics for space missions. The proliferation of space exploration requires the advancements in electronics capable of surviving harsh radiation environments present in space for a prolonged period. The traditional radiation of protecting electronics include either expensive manufacturing processes or heavy shielding that is not cost effective. An optimized material combination and innovative process to make cost- effective light-weight radiation shielding coatings is highly desired. We propose to develop light-weight coatings consisting of polymers doped with a combination of high- and low- atomic number materials for an effective shielding against space radiation, using an innovative cost-effective 3D printing process. The planned shields will be lightweight, with thickness ranging in millimeters. These coatings will offer radiation shielding effectiveness equivalent to the bulk counterpart while serving as a heat sink for electronic components. The Phase I effort will include the development of 3D printing polymer formulation with incorporation of effective shielding materials (radiation resistant polymer with addition of effective high and low atomic number materials), optimization of 3D printing process, and validation of printed coatings against ionizing radiation. Prototype light-weight plastic radiation shields with effective high and low atomic number material additions will be printed via 3D printing, and their radiation shielding effectiveness will be tested under X-ray, gamma-ray, and neutron radiation. The light-weight cost-effective radiation shields will have a myriad of applications which benefit the public. For instance, these shields will not only become necessary components for electronics on space missions, such as space shuttles, space stations and satellites, but also will be useful for more reliable portable electronic devices on earth under various harsh environments. It will directly enhance the quality of telecommunications and hence the quality of life.