Protective Technology for Unified Surfaces

Objective

Spacecraft metals face critical corrosion challenges from cosmic rays, atomic oxygen , and extreme temperature cycling in low Earth orbit, while exposure to salt in the atmosphere is an emerging threat as we move further into reusable crafts. Current protective coatings become brittle and lose adhesion creating micro-cracks that allow corrosive agents to degrade the underlying metal. PROTEUS (PROtective TEchnology for Unified Surfaces) addresses this challenge by developing a new coating made of N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC), with a polymer and a silane outer layer to protect aluminium and titanium components increasing their longevity. This triple layer molecular tool will be tested against current coatings for superior adhesion and flexibility while achieving greater than 80% surface coverage. The coating’s performance will be validated against electrochemical corrosion, atomic oxygen exposure, thermal cycling, and saltwater immersion by using ECSS, the European aerospace standards. Research will unravel at TU Delft's Aerospace Structures and Materials Laboratory under Prof. Arjan Mol's supervision, leveraging world-class space-environment simulation facilities. This interdisciplinary study integrates carbene chemistry, polymer science, materials science, and aerospace engineering. Expected outcomes include two open-access publications, conference presentations, and technology transfer activities with the European Space Agency and industry partners, as well as podcasting outreach using plain language. This project will carve a locus at the chemistry-space engineering interface, positioning me as a mobile, well-rounded researcher while contributing to Europe's sustainable technology goals and the EU Space Act objectives.