BS ISO 15856:2010

Space systems. Space environment. Simulation guidelines for radiation exposure of non-metallic materials. | Status: Current, Confirmed

1 Scope This International Standard is the first part of a series on space environment simulation for on-ground tests of materials used in space. This International Standard covers the testing of non-metallic materials exposed to simulated space radiation. Non-metallic materials include glasses, ceramics and polymer-metal composite materials such as metal matrix composites and laminated materials. This International Standard does not cover semiconductor materials used for electronic components. The types of simulated radiation include charged particles (electrons and protons), solar ultraviolet radiation and soft X-radiation of solar flares. Synergistic interactions of the radiation environment are covered only for these natural, and some induced, environmental effects. This International Standard outlines the recommended methodology and practices for the simulation of space radiation effects on materials. Simulation methods are used to reproduce the effects of the space radiation environment on materials that are located on surfaces of space vehicles and behind shielding. This methodology involves:

1. a) the definition of the environment to be simulated using commonly accepted space environment models;
2. b) the definition of the material properties under test or of concern in accordance with the specificity of degradation in the space environment, satellite-specific constraints determination, temperature conditions (constant values or cycled temperature mode), mechanical stress, charging, contamination, etc.;
3. c) the selection of laboratory radiation simulation sources, energies and fluences that will be used to reproduce the kind of orbital radiation and mimic the orbital dose profiles;
4. d) the exposure techniques and procedures used to perform the laboratory simulation including contamination control, acceleration factors (dose rates), temperature control, vacuum levels and atmospheric effects.

An alternative method using standard spacecraft orbits and environments is included. This International Standard does not specify the design of material specimens, methods of measuring the properties of materials and characteristics of radiation sources, the design of vacuum systems and the preparation of test reports. The user should select designs and measurement methods based on the state of the art and the requirements of specific space systems and contracts. This International Standard does not include a list of hazards and safety precautions. The users are responsible for providing safe conditions based on national and local regulations.