Functionalized nanocarbon based nanocomposites and its feasible application at LEO space environment

Abstract

Recent advances in the development of nanocarbons (including carbon nanotube, graphene and their assembly) have gained much interest in the aerospace field. This study attempted the functionalization of graphene oxide/CNTs with organosilane in order to generate compatibility with a polymer matrices and to improve resistant to carbon materials against AO attack in the LEO space environment. Functionalized nanocarbon filled nanocomposites were prepared by using solution blending methods. To simulate the aging of nanocomposites under LEO space environments, an accelerating LEO space environment simulating equipment was used. Characterization of the nanocomposites after aging was discussed suing the X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, mass loss, and tensile test.