Self healing surface treatments for space applications: case of solar panels [articol] = Traitements de surface auto cicatrisants pour applications spatiales : cas des panneaux solaires

Abstract

The polymer materials are likely to suffer constraints leading to the formation of cracks and fissures, often in depth, where their detection remains difficult and their repair virtually impossible. These cracks are at the origin of adverse consequences as degradation or a dysfunction of the system. To remedy all these problems, the self ("Self-Healing") appears as the best solution. In the framework of materials self using an agent of repair, three points are crucial for the implementation of the following: the storage of the agent of reparation (microcapsules or hollow fibers), the carriage of this agent the fissure and the outbreak of the action of reparation. The reaction of repair is caused by the scope of constraints at the level of the crack. It causes the breakdown of microcapsules or hollow fibers. The agent of repair is then transported to the crack capillary forces and under the effect of the catalyst generally dispersed in the material, blocking the crack. This polymerization can be controlled or highlighted by Scanning Electronic Microscopy (SEM) and by Infrared Spectroscopy (IR). After a discussion on the state of the art in this field, we present here the latest results of our research.