Techniques and Considerations of Materials for Thermal Protection and Temperature Regulation in Spacecraft

Abstract

This paper examines how materials are used in spacecraft to control temperature and provide thermal protection. It emphasizes the importance of passive heat management strategies for maintaining ideal temperatures for space missions, including surface changes, coatings, and insulating blankets. The value of anodizing for passive heat control and the significance of corrosion prevention through chemical conversion coatings are both emphasized in the article. It also describes how to apply coatings with lower absorptance/emittance ratios, including silicone and potassium silicate coatings, to satisfy particular needs in spaceship design. The usage of thermal protection materials, including as ceramic tiles, composites, and ablatives, which are crucial for withstanding the extremely high temperatures encountered during engine exhaust or re-entry, is also covered in detail in the study. There are many elements to consider when choosing materials for thermal protection, including heat flux, stagnation pressure, and mechanical strength, density, and heat shield shape. High-temperature reusable surface insulation (HRSI), toughened unpiece fibrous insulation (TUFI) tiles, reinforced carbon-carbon (RCC), and ablative heatshields like AV coat, PICA, and SLA-561V are notable materials used for thermal protection in spacecraft. Additionally, the use of multilayer ceramics and nanocomposites to protect carbon/carbon composites is investigated. The study emphasizes that while choosing materials for temperature management and thermal protection in spacecraft, it is crucial to consider performance, durability, weight, and mission-specific requirements. This work contributes to tackling the issues of temperature management and thermal protection in the harsh space environment by offering insightful information about the materials and methods used.