Synthesis and characterisation of zeolite objects
minimising the risk of pollution in space
In the world of space, molecular contamination is a serious problem and can have a considerable impact on the performance of onboard instruments. Depending on the thermal environment, some polluting molecules originate from the vacuum degassing of the components that make up a satellite. They are deposited on sensitive surfaces, optics, detectors and thermal control surfaces.
Zeolites in solid form are therefore preferable to minimise the risk of contamination. This is because of their organised microporous structure, which gives them outstanding adsorption capacity. These zeolite objects (film, pads, balls, paints, etc.) are developed by researchers from IS2M, a MICA structure. They also have the added advantage of being directly integrated into the internal structure of satellites and are light, resistant and non-pulverulent.
For more information : Zeolite objects for molecular decontamination in space (PDF)
