Skip to main content
This Page Is a Work in Progress

This page is still being developed. If you have suggestions or want to contribute, please email info.spacerepo@gmail.com with the subject "Contribution for: Page".

Material Outgassing

In the vacuum of space, certain materials release volatile components, a phenomenon known as outgassing.

Impacts

  • Contamination of optical surfaces and sensors
  • Degradation of thermal control coatings

Commonly Outgassing Materials

  • Certain plastics and adhesives
  • Lubricants and paints

Mitigation

  • Bake-out procedures before launch
  • Use of low-outgassing materials (qualified per ASTM E595 or ECSS-Q-ST-70-02)