Carbon nanotube-conductive additive-space durable polymer nanocomposite films for electrostatic charge dissipation

Thin film membranes of space environmentally stable polymeric materials possessing low color/solar absorptivity (α) are of interest for potential applications on Gossamer spacecraft. In addition to these properties, sufficient electrical conductivity is required in order to dissipate electrostatic charge (ESC) build-up brought about by the charged orbital environment. One approach to achieve sufficient electrical conductivity for ESC mitigation is by the incorporation of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs). However, when SWNTs are dispersed throughout the polymer matrix, the nanocomposite films tend to be significantly darker than the pristine material resulting in a higher α. The incorporation of conductive additives in combination with a decreased SWNT loading level is one approach for improving α while retaining conductivity. Taken individually, the low loading level of conductive additives and SWNTs was insufficient in achieving the percolation level necessary for electrical conductivity. When added concurrently to the film, conductivity was achieved. The chemistry, physical and mechanical properties of the nanocomposite films will be presented.