Influence of electronic irradiations on the chemical and structural properties of PEEK for space applications

Abstract

Polymer materials used in satellite manufacturing are exposed to severe environmental conditions. Irradiation by high-energy electrons induces chemical modifications of macromolecules. PolyEtherEtherKetone (PEEK) is used in space industry and therefore, its behaviour regarding electronic irradiations has to be studied. Thus, the aim of this work is to investigate the effect of experimental electronic irradiations on the physical and chemical structure of PEEK. In this way, PEEK films were irradiated under high vacuum by a mono-energetic electron beam. Doses deposited are representatives of 15 years in geostationary electronic environment. The study of irradiated samples revealed modifications of the chemical and physical structures. Irradiation predominantly induces cross-linking phenomena in the amorphous phase in front of chain scission phenomena. Irradiation also leads to a decrease in crystallite size and crystallinity ratio.