[hal-01087655] Testing and qualification of a semi-automated bonding process for optical solar reflectors

Optical Solar Reflectors (OSR) are highly efficient thermal emitter tiles with a typical size of 40x40mm. Spacecraft radiator panels are covered with these tiles to reduce absorption of solar radiation and to dissipate heat of internal payloads into deep space. State of the art processes to apply such OSR tiles are labour intensive and involve application of two-component adhesives, manual placing of tiles and long duration temperature controlled adhesive curing cycles. This paper presents the test and qualification campaign of a new OSR application method using electrically conductive pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA) and a semi-automated OSR pick-and-place facility. Compared to standard OSR application using filled silicone resins, the new process is resulting in radiator surfaces with up to 27% lower mass. The pick-and-place facility will be introduced, the process qualification campaign discussed. Results of tensile-and thermo-optical testing of exposed samples compared to pristine materials will be shown.



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