Analysis on multilayer isolations

Whatever the sector, the isolation layer of a device is one of the elements of very great importance because it makes it possible to limit thermal exchanges as much as possible and therefore actively participates in its preservation.

This information is all the more valid in the space field where the technology operates almost exclusively based on radiative exchanges, inducing temperature increases that can damage the equipment.
It is therefore essential to be able to limit these increases by using multilayer isolation , for example consisting of several sheets of aluminized insulation separated by layers of tulle in order to limit the contact between each sheet of aluminized insulation.

Isolant multicouche
isolant satellite
These multilayer insulators can exhibit, as here, a premature degradation of the first layer.
One of our customers called on our laboratory for a problem like this:
One of their production lot had a defect on its surface, the first golden-colored layer seemed to be crumbling.

We therefore carried out various analyzes to find the origin of this degradation , by comparing a sample of finished product which conforms to a non-conforming one.
In order to check the mechanical strength of the insulators, we performed a nitrogen resistance test , as well as structural analyzes by GCMS and Pyrolyzer/GCMS to identify the extractable organic matrices within the sample and to identify the polymeric / organic matrices of the sample.
The samples were prepared beforehand by means of a solid / liquid extraction in a suitable solvent and then washed in order to obtain a completely smooth gilding and without visible traces to the naked eye.
During the structural analysis by GCMS traces of tetradecane were noted, probably coming from aliphatic oils present during the design or transport of this insulator.
Regarding the Pyrolyzer/GCMS analysis, we noticed a higher amount of PDMS siloxane in the non-compliant sample, which would probably come from a silicone oil.
We also noted the presence of traces of acrylic matrices , probably due to the presence of adhesives.
The nitrogen resistance test did not reveal any malfunction or degradation of the material.

identification composés
The analysis and comparison of the compositions of compliant and non-compliant multilayer insulation have made it possible to highlight a potential pollution due to a leak during the assembly, transport or storage of this insulation, as well as the probable origin of this. here, allowing our client to remedy their non-compliance problem.

Thanks to its complete analytical fleet, the POLYMEX laboratory is able to analyze the insulators of your satellites and identify the reasons for the appearance of certain faults or malfunctions.

Other examples from industry

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