Description

The utilization of structural adhesives in the space sector has expanded significantly in recent years. Adhesively bonded joints offer many advantages compared to traditional joining techniques like welding, screws, bolts and rivets. Nevertheless, the space environment imposes a major challenge in terms of durability on structural adhesives. Existing handbooks and guidelines lack information regarding the effect of ionizing radiation on the mechanical properties of structural adhesive joints. In fact, there are contradicting statements, whether the effect of ionizing radiation should be considered in an early design phase or not. Therefore, in this thesis, a design framework is developed which enables the consideration of radiation induced degradation of structural epoxy adhesives for space applications.