Development and Verification Experiment of In-Situ Friction Experiment Device for Simulating UV Irradiation in Space

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Aerospace Engineering
• Tribology

Background:

• Spacecraft lubricating materials face degradation from space ultraviolet radiation.
• Understanding material property changes under simulated space conditions is crucial for spacecraft longevity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate an in-situ friction experimental device simulating space ultraviolet radiation.
• To investigate the effects of space ultraviolet radiation on spacecraft lubricating materials, specifically PTFE.
• To enable in-situ spatial friction property testing under irradiation.

Main Methods:

• Designed and constructed a laboratory device for simulating space ultraviolet radiation and in-situ friction testing.
• Calibrated and tested device parameters using simulation software and experimental validation.
• Irradiated Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) samples to assess material changes and friction properties.

Main Results:

• The developed device met all design specifications and successfully simulated space ultraviolet radiation.
• In-situ ultraviolet irradiation altered the surface structure and properties of PTFE material.
• The device effectively enabled in-situ friction property testing under simulated space conditions.

Conclusions:

• The developed in-situ friction experimental device is effective for studying the impact of space ultraviolet radiation on lubricating materials.
• The study provides a valuable tool for future research on material performance in space environments.
• Ultraviolet radiation significantly influences the tribological behavior and surface characteristics of PTFE.