Speakers
Description
The space radiation environment consists of highly energetic particles capable of penetrating satellites and causing both transient malfunctions and long term degradation. In this hostile environment, a variety of materials are used to mitigate the effects of radiation. Among these, some legacy materials are still widely used for radiation shielding in satellites designed by the ThalesAlenia Space group.
The introduction of new materials in the space sector will help address obsolescence issues and anticipate the tightening of European regulations restricting the use of certain substances.
However, to be implemented within spacecraft architectures, these materials must be technically and economically viable and must ensure:
• A significantly improved mass to performance ratio compared with the reference material (radiation attenuation, secondary radiation management),
• The same ease of integration during satellite manufacturing,
• Secure sourcing, preferably in France or at least within Europe,
• Safe handling for operators,
• Successful completion of pre qualification tests.
Based on concrete use cases involving metals, as well as a silicone and an epoxy resin—where radiation shielding is critical or even essential for the long term operability of the satellite— RIDERPLAST and IRCER, in collaboration with ThalesAlenia Space have developed a innovative research approach combining simulation and,funded through an ESA Discovery Contract.
By combining simulation, shaping processes and targeted validation testing, four alternative materials, including a high attenuation geopolymer incorporating high Z elements have been developed.
One of these case studies concerns the encapsulation polymer layer applied to embarked sensittive electronics.
To date, the approach has enabled the development and validation of an alternative geopolymer solution that meets the established criteria.
The purpose of this communication is to share the approach and the results to the community attending RadShield 2026.