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Advanced Materials for Future Lunar Extravehicular Activity Space Suit

Article  in  Advanced Materials Technologies · June 2020

DOI: 10.1002/admt.202000028

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PLANETARY EXPLORATION TEXTILES (PEXTEX) - MATERIALS SELECTION PROCEDURE

FOR SURFACE EVA SUIT DEVELOPMENT

Mr. Mohamed Makthoum Peer Mohameda*, Dr. Malgorzata Holynskab, Dr. Peter Weissa, Mr. Thibaud
Goberta, Mr. Yann Chouarda, Mr. Nisheet Singha, Mr. Theo Chalala, Ms. Nina Sejkorac, Dr. Gernot Groemerc,
Dr. Sibylle Schmiedd, Mr. Matthias Schweinsd, Dr. Thomas Stegmaierd, Dr. Goetz T. Gresserd, Dr. Shumit
Dasb
a
COMEX SA, 36, bd de l’Océan - CS 80143 - 13275 Marseille Cedex 9 – France, m.peer@comex.fr
b
ESA, ESTEC, Keplerlaan 1, PO Box 299 NL-2200 AG Noordwijk, The Netherlands, malgorzata.holynska@esa.int
c
Austrian Space Forum, Büro Innsbruck Etrichgasse 18, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria, nina.sejkora@oewf.org
d
Deutsche Institute für Textil - und Faserforschung (DITF), Körschtalstraße 26, 73770 Denkendorf, Germany,
sibylle.schmied@ditf.de
* Corresponding Author
Abstract
New era of human space exploration is about to start: after more than 17 years of successful operations on the
International Space Station (ISS), ESA and its international partners are working on a return to the Moon with the
now starting construction of an orbital “base camp”, Lunar (Deep Space) Gateway, that will serve to perform robotic
and human excursions to the surface of the Moon. Operations with astronauts on the lunar surface will be quite
similar to those performed in the Apollo Programme of the 1970ies. During the Apollo 17 mission, after more than
22 hours of EVA on the lunar surface in the Taurus Littrow valley, NASA astronauts Gene Cernan and Harrison
Schmitt had troubles moving the arms and legs of their spacesuits due to dust that had jammed the joints of the
articulations. When both astronauts entered the Lunar Module on December 13th, 1972 to return back to Earth, some
parts of the suits lacked three layers of the outer skin, abraded by lunar regolith. However, it is to be expected that in
the future EVA will last longer and on a more regular basis than those performed by the Apollo astronauts. Future
surface EVA on the lunar surface will require improved suit concepts compared to the previous systems, such as the
Apollo A7L or their Russian counterparts. Functionalities should include improved flexibility and the use of smarter
materials that are able to heal defects or monitor their integrity. These novel functionalities might be addressed by
new materials developed recently which, on the other hand, have to be tested versus the harsh environment of space
or planetary surfaces. ESA has awarded a study to the PExTex Consortium (DITF and OeWF under the coordination
of COMEX SA) to select and test EVA suit layer material samples for the development of enhanced EVA suit
concepts.
The study is performed in two main tasks:
1) To identify (novel) materials for future EVA space suit developments in Europe, following a detailed literature
survey on current and advanced materials in textile industry, which are then cross-examined with different EVA suit
material layer requirements and lunar environment conditions to select top candidate materials.
2) To propose a testing strategy to verify that such materials meet the selection criteria conditions along with a
dedicated test platform.
This paper presents the top selected candidate materials based on the Consortium's literature survey and provides the
outline for the selected testing strategy.
Keywords: EVA Material, Spacesuit, EVA suit

Nomenclature MeV megaelectronvolt

° degree mSv millisievert
C Celsius N Newton
c centi rad Absorbed dose of ionizing radiation
d density s second
g gram V Volt
Gy Gray W Watts
hPa hectopascal λ Thermal Conductivity
k Kilo
K Kelvin Acronyms/Abbreviations
L Litre
m meter A-RQ Additional Requirement

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BNNT Boron Nitride Nanotubes mSv at solar minimum and 110 mSv at solar
CO Carbon Monoxide maximum).
EMC Electromagnetic Compatibility
[RQ3] Demonstrated compatibility for 2500 hours with
EMU Extravehicular Mobility Unit
lunar vacuum environment.
ESA European Space Agency
EVA Extra Vehicular Activities [RQ4] The material shall sustain repeated pressure-
GCR Galactic Cosmic Radiation vacuum cycling, considering a max. pressure up to 420
HAR High Aspect Ratio hPa over 312 pressurization cycles.
HPPE High Performance Polyethylene
[RQ5] Demonstrated EMC and discharge protection
IR Infrared
ISO International Organization for Standardization during lunar EVA activity for at least 8 hours (from
LCP liquid-crystal polymer friction during movement of the suit and from the
LN Liquid Nitrogen external environment).
LOI Limiting Oxygen Index [RQ6] Demonstrated resistance to wear by abrasive
MLI Multi Layer Insulation regolith (considering lunar environment) for exposure of
MMOD Micrometeoroid Orbital Debris EVA suit over 2500 hours.
PBO Polybenzoxazole
PExTex Planetary Exploration Textiles [RQ7] Demonstrated bendability to 180° (for flexibility
Pi Polyimide of astronaut movements, e. g. in knees and elbows).
PLA Polylactic acid [RQ8] Demonstrated fatigue integrity over the expected
PMMA Polymethyl methacrylate suit life (120 cycles/hour, 2500 hours).
PPA PolyPhtalAmide
RQ Requirement [RQ9] The material shall ensure thermal insulation for
SPE Solar Particle Events EVA activities under external environment defined in
STF Shear-Thickening Fluid [RQ1-RQ3]. and targeted max. temperature 25°C inside
Triboelectric behavior (German: (with minimum at 17°C).
TEV
“Triboelektrisches Verhalten”) [RQ10] The material shall not off-gas toxic substances.
TML Total Mass Loss
UHMW- [RQ11] The material shall be non-flammable.
Ultra-High-Molecular-Weight Polyethylene
PE [RQ12] Demonstrated dust mitigation strategy.
UV Ultraviolet
[RQ13] Demonstrated compatibility (limited
1. Introduction degradation) with long-term storage for 2 years at a
Future EVAs on the lunar surface will require improved space station / habitat. Folding of the suit shall be taken
suit concepts compared to the previous systems such as into account.
the Apollo A7L Pressurized Suit Assembly or their [RQ14] Demonstrated impermeability to water and
Russian counterparts. Functionalities should include fluids.
improved flexibility and the use of smarter materials
that are able to heal defects or monitor their integrity. In addition, the above requirements were complemented
These novel functionalities might be addressed by new by optional/ additional requirements proposed below.
materials developed recently which, on the other hand, Those are important for the final proposed material
have to be tested versus the harsh environment of space options but not necessarily important for candidate
or planetary surfaces. It is the objective of PExTex material selection and may be investigated at later stage.
(ESA contract no. 40000126066) to integrate these two [A-RQ1] Demonstrated reparability over the expected
aspects into one project and to deliver ESA an analysis service lifetime.
of potential future EVA suit materials.
[A-RQ2] Demonstrated possibility to monitor the
Such EVA suit materials shall be selected/ designed to material integrity status (level of damage or remaining
meet the following requirements: functionality) during the use of the EVA suit.
[A-RQ3] High velocity impact tests (MMOD
[RQ1] Demonstrated compatibility with the expected protection)
environmental conditions for 2500 hours with lunar
temperature range (+120°C in sunlight, -170°C in [A-RQ4] Punctuation risk evaluation (against rocks,
darkness). tools).
[RQ2] Demonstrated compatibility for 2500 hours with [A-RQ5] Capability to clean the material from (lunar)
lunar radiation environment (annual exposure to ca. 380 dust.

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[A-RQ6] Test of the biological growth potential (for

inner layers). 1 Teflon PBO (ZYLON) is made of
coated, Polybenzoxazole fibres. PBO is
1.1 Pre- Candidate materials
aluminized selected for the following
The detailed list of materials surveyed as part of the
PBO or characteristics
project were presented in Advanced Materials
Technologies Journal*. A trade-off analysis based on the
HPPE • World´s strongest
fabric synthetic fiber
recommendation and comparative analysis were
conducted to shortlist the most promising candidate • High flame resistance
materials for a potential spacesuit. (LOI >68%, decomp >650°C)
• Light weight like
The top-ranking materials from each functional layer Cellulosic fibers (density 1,5
were assigned as top PExTex candidate stack A, the g/cm3)
second material from each functional layer as candidate • Commercially available:
stack B and so on. The below table presents the top four Zylon®, fibers and fabrics
choice PExTex candidate material stack.
• Very sensible to UV and
Table 1. PExTex top candidate materials visible light (the residual
Rank 1 → 4 strength of ZYLON® after 6
Stack A Stack B Stack C Stack D months exposure to daylight is
Abrasive Teflon VECTRAN, TWARON, DYNTE about 35%), Teflon coating can
Resistance coated, Aluminized Aluminized X protect, while decreasing dust
aluminized and Teflon and Teflon adhesion.[1]
PBO or Coated Coated
2 VECTRAN, VECTRAN is a manufactured and
HPPE
Dust fabric ORMOCER Ultra-
Aluminized spun from a liquid-crystal polymer
Mitigation SOL-GEL Ever Dry and Teflon (LCP) [2]. The characteristics of
Coated Vectran are as follows
Discharge Nonwoven HAR Silver BEKINO • Excellent abrasion
Protection from Antistatic STAT X resistance
PANOX/C- • Excellent flex/fold
Fibers
characteristics
Thermal Aluminized TOSEDA Pi AEROGEL KYNOL • Can withstand high
Insulation Kapton Foil Aerogel + FABRICS radiation exposure
+ Aluminized • Excellent property
Radiation Nonwoven Mylar BNNT SPECTR
from
retention at high/low
Protection FABRICS A
PANOX/ (UHMW temperatures
C-Fibers -PE) • Vectran has low resistance
to UV degradation, Teflon
Impact Neoprene SPECTRA STF Armor KEVLA coating can protect, while
Protection coated PPA (UHMW-PE) R
Ripstop + (multilayered IC600D
decreasing dust adhesion.
PBO Fabric ) Came as top candidate material
(multilayer from NASA tumbler tests.[1]
Pressure ed) Polyethylene Polyurethan Already used in space (Bigelow
Retention e Coated Aerospace spacecrafts, Mars
Nylon Pathfinder, Spirit and Opportunity)
(EMU 3 TWARON, TWARON is a para-aramid, high-
Like) Aluminized performance yarn [3]:
and Teflon • Offering well-balanced
Coated performance in terms of
1.1.1 Abrasive resistant layer: mechanical properties, chemical
resistance and thermal stability.
Weiss et al, “Advanced Materials for Future Lunar
*
• Protects against heat and
Extravehicular Activity Space Suit” . Advanced Material cuts.
Technologies, Vol. 5, Iss. 9. September 2020 • Already used in space and

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its part of NASA Johnson Space resistance

Centre’s Next Generation EVA • Main application:
Gloves. discharge protection clothing
• Comparatively low • Never tested in space
strength ratio when compared to condition
top 2 materials
2HAR Nanostructures Antistatic
4 DYNTEX DYNTEX HEROX fabrics are Antistatic Layer is an antistatic material
made of Polyester, Polyamide based on high aspect ratio
and Elastane:
(HAR) nanostructures[8]:
• High abrasion resistance
• Excellent antistatic
(Martindale 50 000 – 120 000) properties
• Very lightweight (45 –
• Thermal cycling
225 g/m2) [4] resistant (Cyrogenic
• Never been used in space. conditions to +150 °C)
• Outgassing compliant
1.1.2 Dust mitigation layer:
• Resistant to high energy
1 Teflon See choice 1. Abrasion Resistant radiation (dosage ≥ 50 MRad)
coated, material • Added value, can come
aluminized with a multifunctional
PBO or anticorrosive coating
HPPE 3SilveR.STAT • SilveR.STAT is made
fabric of Polyamide fibers with pure
2 ORMOCER Sol-Gel Material is a non- silver coating [9]:
SOL-GEL: metallic inorganic material for • Silver ions while
dust repellent and anti-reflective helping the textile to keep its
coatings[5]: main characteristics will act as
• Coating is easily the antistatic layer
applicable on textiles • Added value: the
• High temperature range material is also antibacterial
• Never tested in space • Never used in space
conditions 4BEKINOX BEKINOX is a wide range of
3 TWARON, See choice 3 Abrasion Resistant highly conductive fibers and
Aluminized material yarns and can be either 100%
and Teflon stainless steel or blended with
or ceramic other materials such as cotton
Coated
and polyester[10]:
4 Ultra-Ever ULTRA EVER DRY coating:
• The yarns can be easily
Dry • Anti-wetting and anti-
knitted, sewn or woven
corrosion
• Never used in space
• Self-cleaning coating[6]
• Never used in space, 1.1.4 Thermal Insulation layer:
chemical reaction in vacuum to
be validated. 1 Aluminized PANOX See choice A material
Kapton Foil + of Discharge Protection layer
1.1.3 Discharge protection layer: Nonwoven Aluminized Kapton Foil:
from • Ultralight and ultrathin
1 Nonwoven PANOX fibers is made of PANOX/C- • Thermal/IR reflective
from oxidized polyacrylonitrile [7]: Fibers • Added values with
PANOX/C- • High LOI value of > 45 radiation and micrometeoroid
Fibers % protection, and thermal
• High temperature insulation.

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• Fragile conductivity
• Already flown in space • Never used in space
multiple times and still in use but has been tested in space
condition
4KYNOL KYNOL is made of Phenol-
2Pi Aerogel + Flexible hybrid aerogels are aldehyde fibers [12]:
Aluminized polyimide system based on a • Thermal protection
Mylar novel type of monomers and • High flame resistance
nanoparticles/nanostructures (LOI >30%, decomp >250°C)
[11]: • Light weight like
• Low density d ≤ 0.08 Cellulosic fibers (density 1,3
g/cm3 g/cm3)
• Excellent toughness at • Strong resistance to
cryogenic conditions acids, alkalis and organic
• Resistant to high solvents.
temperatures (continuous use • Added value: radiation
temperature ≥ 300 °C) reduction
• Low thermal • Never tested in space
conductivity λ ≤ 0.03W/m.K environment
• Strong: A crosslinked
polyimide skeletal structure, 1.1.5 Radiation Protection Layer:
homogenous pore size and large
surface area make these 1 Aluminized PANOX: See choice A material
aerogels impact resistant and Kapton Foil + for Discharge Protection layer
exceptionally strong Nonwoven from Aluminized Kapton Foil:
• Flexible and PANOX/C- See choice A material for
Fibers Thermal Insulation layer
lightweight: Offers multiple
levels of flexibility and can be 2 Pi Aerogel + Polyimide Aerogel Flexible
crafted into thin, lightweight Aluminized hybrid aerogels see choice B
films Mylar material for thermal insulation
• Robust: Can retain layer
physical and mechanical Aluminized Mylar [13]
properties in thermally and • Ultralight and ultrathin
chemically demanding • Thermal/IR reflective
environments • Added values with
• Added value: radiation radiation and micrometeoroid
attenuation more efficient than protection, and thermal
classic aerogel fabrics. insulation.
• Never used in space • Fragile
but has been tested in space • Already flown in space
environment multiple times and still in use
Aluminized Mylar, See below 3 BNNT BNNT, Boron Nitride
Radiation protection layer FABRICS Nanotubes[14]:
3AEROGEL Aerogel Fabrics are granules of • Very high heat
FABRICS silica aerogel suspended in a resistance (900 °C)
nonwoven polymer fiber matrix • Lightweight
[11] • Space radiation
• Flexible and reduction, including cosmic
lightweight rays, solar particles and
• Radiation attenuation neutrons
• Low thermal • Not used in space yet

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but it is part of next generation attenuation

NASA’s spacesuits prototype
4 SPECTRA SPECTRA Fibers (UHMW-
(UHMW-PE) PE) is a fiber made from a 3 STF Armor STF (Shear thickening fluids)
highly processed ultra-high Liquid body armor[17]
molecular weight • Outstanding puncture-
polyethylene[15]: and ballistic-resistant
• Stronger and lighter • Lightweight
than most high-modulus fibers • Flexible
• One of the highest • US Made
strengths to weight ratios • Never used in space
material but NASA study it as an
• Abrasion resistance alternative to Neoprene coated
• Dimensional stability nylon
• Capable to withstand 4 KEVLAR KEVLAR IC600D [18]
high-load strain-rate velocities IC600D • Optimum absorption
• Already used in space of the impact and energy of
applications small fragments
• Added value: • Can withstand high
consequent radiation temperature
attenuation • Never used in space

1.1.6 Impact Protection Layer: 1.1.7 Pressure retention Layer

1 Neoprene coated PBO (ZYLON) see choice A 1 Neoprene coated PBO (ZYLON) see choice A
PPA Ripstop + material for abrasion PPA Ripstop + material for abrasion
PBO Fabric protection layer PBO Fabric protection layer
Neoprene coated PPA Neoprene coated PPA
Ripstop (PPA, partly aromatic Ripstop see choice A material
polyamide) [16]: of impact protection layer
• High LOI value of > 2 Polyethylene Polyethylene
30 % • Ultra-light weight and
• High temperature thin
resistance (TG >120°C) • Still in use for most of
• Never tested in space high stratospheric balloon
environment launches
2 SPECTRA SPECTRA Fibers (UHMW-PE) • Needs a restraint layer
(UHMW-PE) is a fiber made from a highly to keep its shape
processed ultra-high molecular 3 Polyurethane Polyurethane Coated Nylon
weight polyethylene: Coated Nylon (EMU Like):
• Stronger and lighter (EMU Like) • Used for the current
than most high-modulus fibers bladder in all EMU spacesuits
• One of the highest • Easily procurable
strengths to weight ratios • Needs a restraint layer
• Abrasion resistance to keep its shape
• Dimensional stability
• Capable to withstand 2. Test Strategy
high-load strain-rate velocities
• Already used in space To further analyze the selected materials’ ability to meet
applications the lunar environment requirements, the following test
• Added value: strategy is presented.
consequent radiation
2.1 Lunar Environmental Test

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Test Rationale:
[RQ1] Demonstrated compatibility with the expected
environmental conditions for 2500 hours with lunar
temperature range (+120°C in sunlight, -170°C in
darkness).
[RQ3] Demonstrated compatibility for 2500 hours
with lunar vacuum environment.
[RQ8] Demonstrated fatigue integrity over the
expected suit life (120 cycles/hour, 2500 hours).
Verification methods:
1. DITF-003 Bose: dynamic tensile test Comparative
analysis on fatigue characteristics of sample
materials while being exposed to + 120°C and to -
160°C at 1atm
a. Evaluation maximum fracture load
b. Materials ability to remain intact after 120cycles
at 80% of max load
2. COM-001 + DITF-007: Comparative analysis on
tensile characteristics on sample material after
being exposed to thermal vacuum environment
(+120°C)
3. COM-003+ DITF-007: Comparative analysis on
tensile characteristics on sample material after
being exposed to cold vacuum environment
(-150°C)
2.1.1 DITF-003 Bose: Dynamic tensile test
Test Number DITF-003
Name of test Bose
Fig. 1. Illustration of the Bose device. Credit: DITF
Test description: With the help of this test, the
behavior under high stress is to be simulated. For this
purpose, the specimens are compressed and stretched. In
later use, this can correspond to the buckling stress in
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arm and knee movements. After loading, the material
can be analyzed for optical changes (buckling pattern)
and/or fatigue in tensile strength. With a temperature
chamber a temperature range of + 350°C to -150°C
could be tested. Thus, the possible temperature ranges
on the moon from +130°C to -160°C can be covered.
Description: The strength is defined as the highest
force which counteracts the tensile stress when a test
piece is ruptured within a specified width. The
determination of the strength can be determined at heat
and cold. To determine the value, the specimen is
clamped in the tensile testing machine and pulled to
fracture. Furthermore, a force drops over time can be
determined by cyclic loading. To determine the value,
the test sample is clamped in the tensile testing machine
and subjected to cyclic loading. After the cyclic loading,
within the defined limits, the specimen can finally be
pulled to fracture to determine the final force drop.
Test Evaluation/ Success Criteria:
1) Materials ability to remain intact after 120
cycles of the test and
2) Evaluation maximum fracture load
2.1.2 COM-001 Outgassing Test 1
See section 2.13
Custom COMEX PExTex Test Platform.
2.1.3 COM-003 Outgassing Test 3
See Section 2.13
Custom COMEX PExTex Test Platform.
2.1.4 DITF-007 Tensile Test
Test DITF-007
Number
Name of test Tensile Test
Applicable DIN EN ISO 13934-1 and, if
Standard necessary, further
Requirement Post RQ1, RQ2, RQ3, RQ4, RQ8 &
tested RQ13
Test description: Tensile properties of fabrics. The
test can be used to determine the tensile
force/elongation at which the selected materials may
fail. Since tensile stress leads to failure and thus
damages the surface of the suit, a high tensile
force/elongation or knowledge of the level of tensile
force/elongation is important to us.
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2. OeWF-002 + DITF-007: Comparative analysis on

fatigue characteristics on sample material exposed
dose of a few 10s to 100s Gy, (approx. for ~ 8 h) at
MedAustron particle accelerator
3. OeWF-003: Evaluation of dosimeter measurement
after material being exposed to 30 MeV and
measure the radiation behind the sample material

2.2.1 Particle Radiation Tests at MedAustron

The tests to evaluate the textile samples’ radiation
resistance and their ability to shield the astronaut from
ionizing radiation are conducted at the MedAustron
facility in Wiener Neustadt (Austria) [19]. MedAustron
is a center for ion cancer therapy and research. Of the
four irradiation rooms, three are used for patient
treatment and one for non-clinical research. Each of the
rooms is equipped with a precise robotic positioning
system; they differ in terms of flexibility of the particle
beam. In Error! Reference source not found. the beam
characteristics for non-clinical research are given.

Table 2. PExTex Beam characteristics for non-clinical

research at MedAustron [19]

Fig. 2. Exemplary picture of tensile test. There are Particles Protons Carbon Ions
different device versions available. Credit: DITF
Particles per ≤ 1010 ≤ 4 x 108
Description: With the tensile strength the highest spill
force is defined, which counteracts at the break of a Extraction [0.1, 10] s [0.1, 10] s
sample in a defined width of the tensile stress. For the duration
determination of the tensile properties of woven fabrics Beam energy [60, 800] [120, 400]
the simple strip tensile test is described. Thereby a MeV MeV/nucleon
sample with a width of 5 cm is clamped in a tensile Magnetic [1.4, 4.88] [3.25, 6.35] Tm
tester and stretched to the break. Thereby the maximum rigidity Tm
force in N and the elongation of maximum force in %
is calculated. The tests there are preceded by numerical
simulations. The testing campaign at MedAustron is
Test Evaluation/ Success Criteria: split into two basic subtests:
a) Determination of material tensile strength
b) Material ability to maintain same material 2.2.2 OEWF-02 Material Fatigue Test
strength after e.g. radiation fatigue, ageing In this test the dose deposited in the fabric sample is
chamber or vacuum chamber tests. to be maximized, beyond what is to be expected in the
actual environment. The intention is to enhance any
2.2 Lunar Radiation Environment Test material fatigue affects that can be caused by the
Test Rationale: radiation, in order to easily compare the materials. After
[RQ2] Demonstrated compatibility for 2500 hours the radiation exposure, the materials are subjected to
with lunar radiation environment (annual exposure to DITF-007 Tensile Test again in order to quantify any
ca. 380 mSv at solar minimum and 110 mSv at solar material degradation.
maximum). This test is intended to be done with multiple
samples next to each other simultaneously in order to
minimize the test duration. It would be desirable reach a
Verification methods:
cumulative dose of a few 10s to 100s Gy. The currently
1. OeWF-001: GEANT4 analysis using Proton
planned exposure time is ~ 8 h (= one shift at the
sources with spectra for SPE and GCR between 0- MedAustron facility).
100 MeV + simulation of MedAustron radiation This test is to be conducted on all textiles under test.
source

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Test Setup
Fig. 3. Sample holder used for the radiation-induced
material fatigue test OEWF-002. Credit: OeWF
For the positioning of the textile samples for the
OEWF-02 test a sample holder made from PMMA is
used (see Fig. 3). The size of fabric samples is governed
by the requirements of DITF-007. Therefore, the sample
size is 30x3 cm. Additionally, in order to obtain
statistically reasonable results in DITF-007, more than
one sample per layup needs to be tested. To irradiate the
entire length of each sample would take too long. The
test setup will therefore only expose a small section of
each textile to the irradiating beam (the “vertically
arranged” part of the textile in Fig. 3). This small
irradiated area will, if a substantial amount of material
fatigue is caused by the ionizing radiation, act as a
predetermined breaking point.
One sample holder contains three samples of each
layup. One layup is a multilayer sample corresponding
to the “sample suit material under test”, i.e. it includes
multiple layers of various fabrics.
The sample holder containing the multilayer samples
is placed in front of the ion source. The source is
calibrated to deposit a maximum dose in the materials,
using a spread-out Bragg peak. For this reason a second
PMMA sheet is put in front of the samples (to the front
of the sample holder shown in Fig. 3), to achieve the
primary deceleration of the particles. To deposit a
homogeneous dose over the sample area under test, the
samples are scanned by the beam.
Test Evaluation/ Success Criteria
The basic aim of this test is to determine the fatigue
in various materials caused by a radiation dose of a few
10s to 100s Gy. After a successful test execution, the
tensile strength, as measured by DITF-007, shows
notable differences to the measurements of non-
irradiated samples. A greater loss in tensile strength in
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one material compared to another corresponds to a
greater amount of damage caused by radiation.
2.2.3 OEWF-03 Radiation Shielding Test
In this test the fabrics are exposed to a proton beam
representative of part of the actual radiation
environment. It is the intention to focus mainly on
testing the effect of the lower-energy part of the
radiation spectrum, as also mentioned in section
“Error! Reference source not found.”. The proton
energy to be used is 30 MeV. As the accelerator cannot
produce particles of such a low energy directly, a
60 MeV beam is decelerated to 30 MeV by placing
~20 mm of PMMA in front of the samples. In the test
the dose transmitted through the fabric is measured by
placing a dosimeter behind the sample. The shielding
provided by the various layups will be evaluated by
comparing the dose to a reference dose measurement
without any fabric in the beam path. A more detailed
study of how the material influences the transmitted
radiation is possible by using a peak finder instrument
to map the position of the Bragg peak behind the sample
(depicted in Fig. 4).
In this test, each multilayer-assembly is to be tested
separately.
Fig. 4 Sample holder used for the radiation-shielding
test in front of peak finder instrument. Credit:
MedAustron
Test setup
Each layup is put onto a sample holder (see Fig. 4). The
holder is 3D-printed from PLA. The sample holder is
placed between ion source and the detection instrument.
In front of the sample, a set of PMMA sheets of defined
thickness (~20 mm) is placed to reduce the proton
energy from 60 MeV to 30 MeV.
Test Evaluation/ Success Criteria
The basic aim of this test is to determine how well
the respective materials shield an astronaut wearing the
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future spacesuit from radiation. The transmitted

radiation is measured by a dosimeter and a peak finder
and compared between samples and to the unshielded
dosage. The results of a successful test should
correspond to the results obtained by simulations in
OEWF-001

2.3 Pressure-Vacuum Cycling test

Test Rationale:
[RQ4] The material shall sustain repeated
pressure-vacuum cycling, considering a max. pressure
up to 420 hPa over 312 pressurization cycles.

Verification methods:
1. COM-004 + DITF-007: Comparative analysis on
tensile characteristics on sample material after
being exposed to 320 pressure-vacuum cycle
between .4bar and 10-5 mbar
2.3.1 COM-04 Pressure Cycling Test
See Section 2.13
Custom COMEX PExTex Test Platform.
2.4 EMC and Discharge Protection Test
Test Rationale:
[RQ5] Demonstrated EMC and discharge
protection during lunar EVA activity for at least 8 hours
(from friction during movement of the suit and from the
external environment).
Verification methods:
1. DITF-013: Comparative analysis on indicative
behavior of the sample when exposed to voltage of
100 ± 5 V at less than 10E9 Ohm at 50 %% rel.
hum. or less than 10E11 at 25% rel. hum.
2. COM-007: Discharge behavior of the sample
material at vacuum condition
3. DITF-014: Indicative charge dissipation level of
the sample material
4. DITF-015: Sample materials indicative shielding
ability against electromagnetic fields
2.4.1 DITF-013 Discharge Protection (Resistance)
Fig. 5. Illustration of resistance measurement. Credit:
DITF
Description: For the determination of surface and
volume resistance 2 electrodes are used. The specimen
is placed between the 2 electrodes and a voltage of
100 ± 5 V or 10 ± 0.5 V is applied, depending on the
resistance of the materials to be tested. The resistance is
measured after 15 ± 1 seconds. For the test of textiles,
the ring electrode according to DIN EN 1149-1 is used.
The climatic condition can be varied.
Test Evaluation/ Success Criteria: Determination
of discharging behavior
2.4.2 COM-007: Discharge behavior of the sample
material at vacuum condition)
See Section 2.13
Custom COMEX PExTex Test Platform
2.4.3 DITF-014 Discharge Protection (Triboelectric)
Test Number DITF-014
Name of test Discharge protection
Applicable Standard DIN EN 1149-3, method 1
Requirement tested RQ5
Test description: Triboelectric behavior (TEV)
shows the charging behavior by friction and separation
of materials and the discharging behavior.

Test Number DITF-013 Description: The TEV method end use test method
Name of test Discharge protection – as described in DIN EN 1149-3. Setup: The specimen
Applicable According to DIN EN 1149-1 and – hanging under a defined load – is fixed at one side
Standard 2 or further into an earthed clamping device. Under defined
Requirement RQ5 conditions the specimen is charged up by rubbing once
tested against a pair of rods (Polyethylene). The maximum
charge level and the charge dissipation are measured by
using an electrostatic field meter. The electrostatic
Test description: Surface and Volume Resistance behavior can be different in both directions of the
values are used to assess the discharging behavior of material, so that the test is performed separately for the
materials. length/warp- and cross/weft-direction.

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Characteristic values:
• the maximum charge E0 in kV/m after the
rubbing process has been completed (time te =
0 s),
• the residual charge E10 in kV/m after a
discharging time of te = 10 s,
• the residual charge E30 in kV/m after a
discharging time of te = 30 s,
• the time t(0.1 E0) which is needed to discharge
to 10% of the E0 - value.

Fig. 6. Sketch of the TEV method for measuring the

triboelectric properties of fabrics. Credit: DITF Fig. 7. EMC test setup. Credit: DITF
Test Evaluation/ Success Criteria: Determination Test Evaluation/ Success Criteria: Materials
of discharging behavior (and comparative analysis) ability to provide shielding of electromagnetic fields
until 3 GHz.
2.4.4 DITF-015 EMC
2.5 Regolith Abrasion Test
Test Number DITF-015 Test Rationale:
Name of test EMC [RQ6] Demonstrated resistance to wear by abrasive
Applicable Standard According to MIL-STD 285 regolith (considering lunar environment) for exposure
VG 95 370, Part 15, method of EVA suit over 2500 hours.
KS 03 S and IEEE Standard
299-2006.
Verification methods:
Requirement tested RQ5
1. DITF-001: Comparative analysis on sample
Test description: Electromagnetic shielding shows materials maximum abrasive behaviors against
the textile's ability to provide prevention against rough Abraser
electromagnetic radiation 2. DITF-001 ver2: Above test with regolith simulant
in addition to the Abraser.
Description: The shielding effectiveness against 3. DITF-008: Outer layer ability to stop regolith
high-frequency electromagnetic fields is determined simulant penetration when mixed and revolved with
using the DITF test equipment according to MIL-STD simulant
285 VG 95 370, Part 15, method KS 03 S and IEEE
Standard 299-2006. It consists of two antennas, a 2.5.1 DITF-001 Rotary Platform Double Head
sample frame and the measuring instrument. The Abraser
transmitting antenna generates polarized
electromagnetic radiation that penetrates the textile. The Test Number DITF-001
textile sample is measured in two directions, because Name of test Rotary Platform Double Head
both directions may be different. Measurements are Abraser
done with textile and without textile and from the Applicable DIN 53 109
difference between the results the shielding of the textile Standard
is calculated and given in dB. Requirement RQ6
tested

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Test description: Determination of abrasion. With 2.5.2 DITF-001 V2 Rotary Platform Double Head
the help of this method the behavior of the materials Abraser with Soil Simulant
towards abrasion shall be simulated. The test is carried
out using the friction wheels. Various statements can be Test Number DITF-001 Vers.2
made with the tab test. On the one hand, the weight Name of test Rotary Platform Double Head
change can be determined by the abrasion after the load Abraser
(weight before/after). In addition, a statement can be Applicable According to DIN 53 109
made about a possible surface change (microscopic). If Standard /simulation with soil simulant
necessary, this test can also be used as a preliminary test Requirement RQ6
for the tumbler test. tested

Description: The determination of the abrasion
according to the Rotary Platform Double Head Abraser
(Taber) serves to the rating of the abrasion resistance of
the textile surface. The mass, that results from the
sanding of the test specimen with friction wheels with
different goodness under specific pressure serves as rate
for the abrasion. The change of the color corresponding
to the grade of grey scale according to DIN EN ISO
105-A02 and the loss of mass of the test specimens was
determined additionally.
Note: The measurement of the resistance to abrasion of
textile and other materials is very complex. The
resistance to abrasion is affected by many factors, such
as the inherent mechanical properties of the fibers; the
dimensions of the fibers; the structure of the yarns; the
construction of the fabrics; and the type, kind, and
amount of finishing material added to the fibers, yarns,
or fabric.
Test description: Determination of abrasion. With
the help of this method the behavior of the materials
towards soil simulant shall be simulated. On the one
hand, the weight change can be determined by the
abrasion after the load (weight before/after). In addition,
a statement can be made about a possible surface
change (microscopic). If required, this test can also be
used as a supplement to the tumbler test
Description: The determination of the abrasion
according to the Rotary Platform Double Head Abraser
(Taber) serves to the rating of the soil simulant
resistance of the textile surface. In order to achieve
continuous flow of simulant, the concept using an
assembly of Hopper and auger assembly as shown in
Fig. 9. At first the hopper is filled with simulants, which
are then deposited onto the Abraser’s sample holder
platform at required phase.

Fig. 9. Proposed simulant dispenser assembly Credit:

DITF
Test Evaluation/ Success Criteria: Outermost layer
ability to withstand abrasion and its ability to block
microscopic regolith simulant from entering inner layer.

2.5.3 DITF-008 Tumbler Test

Fig.8. Illustration of rotary platform double head abraser. Test Number DITF-008
Credit: DITF Name of test Tumbler Test
Applicable Standard RD23 – NASA tumble test
Test Evaluation/ Success Criteria: Outermost layer Requirement tested RQ12, RQ6
ability to withstand abrasion.
Test description: With the Tumbler Test different
statements can be made. On the one hand, the dust

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capacity can be determined after the stress (weight freedom of movement and thus a restriction in the tasks
before/after). Furthermore, a statement about a possible to be performed.
surface change can be made (microscopically) after
cleaning the treated samples. Description: For this determination the sample, that
lies between a supporting surface and a slider, is moved
Description: The samples are placed together in a uninterrupted to a defined marking. Out of the “excess
glass with dust and tumbler. The glass is then inserted length” of the sample considering the mass per unit
into the instrument and moved for 8hr. The sample is area, the stiffness in bending B is calculated in mN·cm2.
then taken and carefully cleaned of dust. The cleaned
sample can then be analyzed for optical changes /
destruction. Furthermore, the dust adhesion can be
expressed in numbers by determining the weight (before
and after the test).

Fig.10. Tumbler test chamber. Credit: DITF

Test Evaluation/ Success Criteria: Outermost layer

ability to withstand abrasion and its ability to block
microscopic regolith simulant from entering inner layer. Fig.11. Illustration of Cantilever. Credit: DITF

2.6 Bendability Tests

Test Evaluation/ Success Criteria: The material
should bend 180°
Test Rationale:
[RQ7] Demonstrated bendability to 180° (for
2.7 Thermal Insulation Test
flexibility of astronaut movements, e. g. in knees and
elbows). Test Rationale:
[RQ9] The material shall ensure thermal insulation
for EVA activities under external environment defined
Verification methods: in [RQ1-RQ3]. and targeted max. temperature 25°C
1. Visual inspection of each materials ability to inside (with minimum at 17°C).
bend 18°
2. DITF-005: measurement of bending stiffness of Verification methods:
the sample material. 1. DITF-002: Determination of thermal
conductivity of the sample materials
2.6.1 DITF-005 Cantilever
2. COM-005: To measure the ability of the
Test Number DITF-005 thermal layers to maintain the inner layer
Name of test Cantilever temperature to below 25°C
Applicable Standard DIN 53 362
2.7.1 DITF-002 Alambeta Test
Requirement tested RQ7
Test Number DITF-002
Test description: Determining the bending
Name of test Alambeta Test
stiffness. The bending stiffness is an important criterion
Applicable Standard according to DIN 52616
for single and for the later multilayer. If the total of the
materials used is too stiff, there may be a restriction in Requirement tested RQ9 [High temperature]

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Test description: Determination of thermal

conductivity by means of a heat-flow meter. With this 2.9 Flammability Test
method, the determination of thermal conductivity by
the materials is to be determined. Test Rationale:
[RQ11] The material shall be non-flammable as per
Description: During the determination of the [AD7].
thermal conductivity, a test sample with a test area of
100 cm2 is placed on the lower plate of the measuring Verification methods:
instrument. The upper heated plate (temperature
difference 10 K or 40 K) is lowered and pressed with a 1. DITF-006: Upward propagation test
measuring pressure of Press 2 cN/cm2 onto the test
2.9.1 DITF-006 LOI Facility - Upward propagation
sample. There is a heat flow from the upper heated plate
test
to the cooler lower plate with the sample as resistance in
the middle. The measurement is completed when a Test Number DITF-006
steady heat flow is reached. The thermal conductivity in Name of test LOI
10-3 [Wm-1K-1] and the thermal resistance in 10-3
[Km2W-1] are determined by temperature and heat flow Applicable ASTM 2863-70/76, ECSS-Q-ST-70-
sensors. Standard 21C
Requirement RQ11
tested
Test description: Determination of the Limiting
Oxygen Index (LOI). The oxygen index is a parameter
used to describe the fire behavior of plastics in
particular. It is the minimum oxygen concentration of an
oxygen-nitrogen mixture under which combustion
continues under the test conditions. The lower the
oxygen index, the better a material burns.

Description: The LOI value for the test will be fixed

Fig.12. Determination of thermal conductivity by means
at 21. The sample, whose oxygen index is to be
of a heat-flow meter. Credit: DITF determined, is ignited from below to begin the ignition
in a glass cylinder through which an oxygen-nitrogen
Test Evaluation/ Success Criteria: Thermal
mixture flow. After removing the pilot flame, the
insulation layer’s ability to maintain the inner layer
reaction to fire is observed. The flame duration to reach
temperature within 25°C.
The test is run till the heat transfer becomes a measuring mark 50 mm below the upper edge is
constant. measured, the oxygen concentration is reduced in the
following test, otherwise increased. This is carried out
until the specimen burns at a certain concentration.
2.7.2 COM-004 Thermal Insulation Test
Main difference between the ECSS and the proposed
See Section 2.13
facility is as follows.
Custom COMEX PExTex Test Platform.
LOI-Standard test ECSS DITF
2.8 Off gassing Test method
Dimension Min 250L 95 (dia)
x450
Test Rationale:
(length)
[RQ10] The material shall not off-gas toxic
mm
substances.
gas distribution glass balls 3..5mm perforated
plate
Verification methods: Sample size 64 mm x 300 mm 50 mm x
1. COM-005: Measurement of CO and other gas 150 mm
at 1atm and 50°C Ignitor Source 20gauge Gas
Nichrome wire
with nominal
2.8.1 COM-005 Off gassing Test resistivity of 2,3
See Section 2.13 Ω/m
Custom COMEX PExTex Test Platform.

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flame ignition bottom of the bottom of include those treatments that lower the potential of dust
sample the sample adhesion that dust can be easily removed by gravity or
gas analyzer 0-25% and 0- 0-100% active technologies
100% Active Technologies include all solutions whereby
speed of gas flow 10 cm/s, 26,4 40 ± 10 dust is cleaned away from surfaces or surfaces are
l/min mm/s, 17 protected through external forces to clean a surface or
l/min protect it against dust deposition - for example, fluidal,
ambient normal room Room mechanical electro-dynamic (electrical field plus
temperature temperature temperature vibration) or static methods.
(23°C ± Post Disposal methods removing the deposited/
2°C) settled dust on the target surface.

2.10.1 DITF-008 Tumbler Test

See test DITF-008 Tumbler Test in Section DITF-
008 Tumbler Test

2.11 Long-Term Storage Test

Fig.13. LOI chamber. Credit: DITF
Test Rationale:
[RQ13] Demonstrated compatibility (limited
degradation) with long-term storage for 2 years at a
space station / habitat. Folding of the suit shall be taken
into account.

Test Evaluation/ Success Criteria: Verification methods:

a) The combustion zone propagates less than 150 1. DITF-012 + DITF-007: Comparative analysis
mm into the sample within minimum use on tensile characteristics on sample material
thickness and the time of burning does not exposed to accelerated aging condition
exceed 10 minutes.
b) There shall be no sparking, sputtering, or 2.11.1 DITF-012 Ageing Chamber
dripping of flaming particles from the test
sample. Test Number DITF-012
Name of test Ageing Chamber
2.10 Dust Mitigation Strategy Applicable Standard Simulation
Requirement tested RQ13
Test Rationale:
[RQ12] Demonstrated dust mitigation strategy.
[A-RQ5] Capability to clean the material from Test description: Time accelerating aging of the
(lunar) dust. multilayer. With the assistance of this method,
accelerated ageing of the multilayer can be achieved. In
combination with selected mechanical technological
Verification methods: tests (e.g. tension), a statement can be made on the
1. Mitigation strategy study followed by DITF- ageing behavior of the single and the multilayer.
008: Tumbler Test where applicable Simulation is possible in the range of -45°C to +180°C
with irradiation of an MHG UV lamp. (295 nm to 3000
nm)
Description
Dust Mitigation Technologies can be differentiated
in three categories:
Pre-treated / Passive technologies utilize pre-treated
physical materials or chemicals in a laboratory
environment, which mitigate the extent that charged
dust particles adhere to surfaces – for example, dust
shades or shields, or materials that disrupt electrostatic
charge or coating of surfaces, which leads to dust failing
to cling or accumulate on the treated surfaces. They also

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pressures determined correspond to the pressures in

later use. This test is particularly important for the
pressure retention layer.
Description: For the determination of the air
permeability the sample is exposed to a drawing
airstream. Depending on the materials permeability
properties, a loss of pressure will result when faced with
the airstream, which is measured as pressure difference.

Fig.14. Ageing chamber. Credit: DITF

Description: The samples to be investigated are

exposed to climatic cycles in order to simulate the
temperature stress in an intensified way. After applying
the Arrhenius formula, it is possible to reduce the period
from 2 years at max. 26.7°C (ISS cabin temperature) to
approx. 6 weeks at 40K (66.7°C), humidity to 25% RH
Fig.15. Air permeability test setup. Credit: DITF
and irradiation during the complete test period to 830
W/m² global irradiation to be comparable with the real
stress. The desired acceleration can be achieved by Test Evaluation/ Success Criteria: Determination
tightening the conditions. of air permeability on the sample.
Test Evaluation/ Success Criteria: Materials 2.12.2 DITF-010 Hydrostatic Pressure Test
fatigue properties remains intact after the completion of
climate cycle. Test Number DITF-010
Name of test hydrostatic pressure
2.12 Impermeability test test
Applicable Standard DIN EN 20 811
Test Rationale: Requirement tested RQ14
[RQ14] Demonstrated impermeability to water and
fluids.
Test description: The test provides information on the
Verification methods: water tightness of the relevant layers. Since the
tightness against liquids can also be influenced by the
1. DITF-009: To determine the maximum air capillary effect, it would be useful to use this test
permeability capability of the sample material especially for the evaluation of completely closed
2. DITF-010: To determine the maximum fluid (coated) surfaces. The test thus represents an addition or
permeability capability of the sample material extension to DITF-009 air permeability.
3. DITF-011: To evaluate the sample materials
Description: The water tightness specifies at which
bursting strength
water pressure a fabric is still tight. During the
2.12.1 DITF-009 Air Permeability determination of the water tightness the water pressure
is judged against which the fabric is still tight with a
Test Number DITF-009 defined constant pressure increase. The number of water
drops penetrating the textile fabric depending on the
Name of test Air permeability
time and pressure are considered.
Applicable Standard DIN EN ISO 9237
Requirement tested RQ14

Test description: The air permeability test gives

information about the air permeability up to which
pressure (Pa) it can retain in particular area. With the
help of the test, it can be evaluated whether the

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Fig.16. Hydrostatic Pressure test. Credit: DITF
Test Evaluation/ Success Criteria: Determination of
fluid permeability (determination at which pressure
water bubbles are formed) on the sample
2.12.3 DITF-011 Bursting properties of fabrics
Test Number DITF-011
Name of test Bursting properties of fabrics
Applicable Standard DIN EN ISO 13938‐2
Requirement tested basic
Verification method Test
Test description: Pneumatic method for
determination of bursting strength. The test can provide
information about the pressure at which the material
bursts. This test is particularly important for the
pressure retention layer.
Description: A sample is clamped over a rubber
membrane with a circular bell. The membrane with the
sample is arched from below with steadily increasing air
pressure. The pressure is increased until bursting of the
sample is achieved. The bursting pressure in kPa and the
bursting curvature in mm are determined.
Test Evaluation/ Success Criteria:
a) Pressures retention ability to withstand a min
2bar difference
b) Evaluation of samples bursting strength
2.13 Custom COMEX PExTex Test Platform
A dedicated PExTex Test Platform is developed to
meet the following remaining test requirements that are
neither completely nor partially fulfilled by existing
facility:
Test Requirements:
[RQ1] Demonstrated compatibility with the
expected environmental conditions for 2500 hours with
lunar temperature range (+120°C in sunlight, -170°C in
darkness).
IAC-20-A1.VP.57714
[RQ3] Demonstrated compatibility for 2500 hours
with lunar vacuum environment.
[RQ4] The material shall sustain repeated pressure-
vacuum cycling, considering a max. pressure up to 420
hPa over 312 pressurization cycles.
[RQ9] The material shall ensure thermal insulation
for EVA activities under external environment defined
in [RQ1-RQ3]. and targeted max. temperature 25°C
inside (with minimum at 17°C).
[RQ10] The material shall not off-gas toxic
substances
[RQ5] Demonstrated EMC and discharge protection
during lunar EVA activity for at least 8 hours (from
friction during movement of the suit and from the
external environment).
Verification methods:
1. COM-001: Thermal Vacuum Test
2. COM-002: Cold Vacuum Test
3. COM-003: Pressure Cycling Test
4. COM-004: Thermal Insulation test
5. COM-005: Off gassing test
6. COM-006: Discharge measure-ment
2.13.1 COM-001 – Thermal vacuum test
Platform description:
An aluminum pressure chamber is built to meet the
gap in the test requirement. The chamber is built in
cylindrical shape of roughly 23cm in diameter and 30cm
in length. The chamber is emptied using Turbo- pump to
reach 10-5 mbar. The chamber is equipped with PCG-
750 pirani/capacitance diaphragm gauge with a pressure
range up to 10-5 mbar and T-Type temperature probe
with operating range between -200 to 390°C with
accuracy of ±1.5°C. And a standalone sodium vapor or
xenon lamp as heat source.
Fig. 17. PExTex Custom platform, Credit: COMEX
Test Description:
A sample of 100 – 300 mg (rough estimate) is
placed inside the chamber. Then the temperature is
maintained at 22°C for 24 hours (pre-conditioning) at
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55%rH. Following which the chamber is emptied and
the heat sources is turned to increase the chamber
temperature to 125°C for 24 hours (thermal vacuum
test) at p < 10-5 mbar. After which the pressure inside
the chamber is restored to ambient pressure at 22°C for
24 hours (post-conditioning) at 55%rH
Test Evaluation/ Success Criteria: The aim of the
test is to expose the sample material to thermal vacuum
condition before evaluating and comparing the tensile
strength of the sample (DITF-007)
Secondary Evaluation:
Calculating Total Mass Loss (TML): mean value of
the Material is less than 1.0% of the sample total mass
after being exposed to vacuum at 125 °C for 24hr.
2.13.2 COM-002 – Cold vacuum test
Platform description:
For cold vacuum test, a second custom built
platform was built similar to the platform described in
COM-001 section with one change being the window
replaced with aluminum flange. Upon reaching the
desired vacuum level the chamber is disconnected from
the vacuum pump and immersed into a cryo-bath
containing Liquid Nitrogen.
Fig.18 Cryo-bath container for the PExTex chamber.
Credit: COMEX
IAC-20-A1.VP.57714
Test Description:
A sample of 100 – 300 mg (rough estimate) is
placed inside the chamber. Then the temperature is
maintained at 22°C 24 hours (pre-conditioning) at
55%rH. Following which the chamber is emptied to p <
10-5 mbar. The chamber is disconnected from the turbo
pump and placed inside a nitrogen liquid bath (below -
196°C) for 24hrs.
After which the pressure inside the chamber is
restored to 22°Cat ambient pressure for 24 hours (post-
conditioning) at 55%rH
Test Evaluation/ Success Criteria: The aim of the
test is to expose the sample material to cold vacuum
condition before evaluating and comparing the tensile
strength of the sample (DITF-007)
Secondary Evaluation:
Calculating Total Mass Loss (TML): mean value of
the Material is less than 1.0% of the sample total mass
after being exposed to vacuum at 125 °C for 24hr.
2.13.3 COM-003 – Pressure Cycling Test
Platform description:
The same custom platform from COM-001 will be
reused without the heat source.
Test Description:
The vacuum pump controller setup will be
automated with simple program to circulate the turbo
pump between 10-8 bar and atmospheric .4 bar for a total
of 312 cycles will be performed per stack.
Test Evaluation/ Success Criteria: The aim of the test
is to expose the sample material to 312 pressure-vacuum
cycles before evaluating and comparing the tensile
strength of the sample (DITF-007)
2.13.4 COM-004 Thermal Insulation test
Platform description:
The same custom platform from COM-001 will be
reused with surface sensor below the thermal isolation
layer during stack test.
Test Description:
In addition to measuring thermal conductive of
induvial material samples. COM-005 will be used to
demonstrate the stack ability to maintain the
temperature of 25°C after on the inner layers.
Test Evaluation/ Success Criteria: Surface
temperature sensor reading maintained at 25°C
2.13.5 COM-005 Off gassing test
Test Description:
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 Mercury 0.01 0.002 0.001 0.001 0.001 Not
Set
Methane 5300 5300 5300 5300 5300 Not
Set
71st International Astronautical Congress (IAC) – The CyberSpace Edition, 12-14 October 2020.
Methanol 200 70 70 70 70 23
Copyright ©2020 by the International Astronautical Federation (IAF). All rights reserved.
Methyl ethyl Ketone 50 50 10 10 10 Not
Set
A Residual Gas Analyzer is attached to the platform Methyl hydrazine 0.002 0.002 0.002 0.002 0.002 Not
Set
using a standard CF port.
Dichloromethane
The test will be performed alongside COM-01 test.
Octamethyltrisiloxane 600 100 100 50 50 50
Outgassed materials from the sample are captured and (Linear Siloxanes)
analyzed using the gas analyzer which are then cross- 2-propanol 400 100 60 60 60 Not
referenced to determine if the measurement is within the Set
ECSS standard. Toluene 16 16 4 4 4 4
Trichloroethylene 50 11 9 4 2 Not
Set
Trimethylsilanol 15 2 1 1 1 1
Xylenes 50 17 17 17 8.5 1.5

2.13.6 COM-006- Discharge measurement

Description:
Vacuum rated electrostatic probes will be connected
to the platform to measure the discharge value of the
samples.
Fig.19. PExTex Platform with Residual Gas
Analyzer. Credit: COMEX Test Evaluation/ Success Criteria: Measurement
Test Evaluation/ Success Criteria: The outgassed gas of discharge value of the sample material under vacuum
from the sample material contains carbon monoxide condition
level <25 μg/g
3. Additional Requirements
Secondary objective:
The secondary objective of the test is to evaluate the 3.1 Reparability
gasses identified in the Table 2. [A-RQ1] Demonstrated reparability over the
expected service lifetime.
Table 3. Maximum Allowable Concentration
3.1.1 EXT-001 Reparability
(ppm)Gas limitation
To recover materials that have gone through
CHEMICAL MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE
CONCENTRATION (ppm) destructive testing and perform various types of
1 hr 24 7 30 180 1000 standard fabric repair work such as sewing and
hrs days days days days soldering.
Acetaldehyde 10 6 2 2 2 Not These repaired materials will once again be exposed
Set to nondestructive tests to evaluate their integrity after
Acrolein 0.075 0.035 0.015 0.015 0.008 0.008 testing.
Ammonia 30 20 3 3 3 3
Carbon Monoxide 425 100 55 15 15 15 3.2 Monitor Integrity
1,2-Dichloroethane 0.4 0.4 0.4 0.4 0.4 0.4
[A-RQ2] Demonstrated possibility to monitor the
2-Ethoxyethanol 10 10 0.8 0.5 0.07 Not
Set material integrity status (level of damage or remaining
Formaldehyde 0.8 0.5 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 functionality) during the use of the EVA suit.
Freon 113 50 50 50 50 50 Not 3.2.1 EXT-002 Integrity Monitoring
Set Smart materials that can provide material integrity
Hydrazine 4 0.3 0.04 0.02 0.004 Not status during EVA activities or embed sensors can be
Set
used to monitor the integrity status of the suit materials.
Hydrogen 4100 4100 4100 4100 4100 Not
Set
Indole (C8h7N) 1.0 0.3 0.05 0.05 0.05 Not 3.3 High-Velocity Impact
Set [A-RQ3] High velocity impact tests (MMOD). The
Mercury 0.01 0.002 0.001 0.001 0.001 Not requirement is mentioned in the SoW. It is proposed a
Set
7km/s impact with projectiles of 0.5 to 1.5mm (0° and
Methane 5300 5300 5300 5300 5300 Not
Set
45° angles). This requirement can be combined with A-
Methanol 200 70 70 70 70 23
RQ2 (monitoring).
Methyl ethyl Ketone 50 50 10 10 10 Not 3.3.1 COM-06 High-Impact Velocity Test
Set
Methyl hydrazine 0.002 0.002 0.002 0.002 0.002 Not
Set
Dichloromethane
Octamethyltrisiloxane 600 100 100 50 50 50
IAC-20-A1.VP.57714
(Linear Siloxanes) Page 19 of 21
2-propanol 400 100 60 60 60 Not
Set
Toluene 16 16 4 4 4 4
 71st International Astronautical Congress (IAC) – The CyberSpace Edition, 12-14 October 2020.
Copyright ©2020 by the International Astronautical Federation (IAF). All rights reserved.

The materials shall be exposed to high velocity (Test A/ B/ C/ D) containing different laboratory
projectiles representing MMOD scenarios and the approaches have been conducted.
resulting data from different samples will be cross
referred. 3.4.2 Test A
A simple, time and cost saving method was
developed to evaluate the biocontamination propagation
3.3.2 Punctuation (Rocks, Tools) through layered textile stacks without adding any extra
[A-RQ4] Punctuation risk evaluation (against rocks, nutrient sources the microorganisms could use and
tools) thrive on. Aim of Test A was to simulate storage of a
space suit on-orbit or in a base on the Moon’s surface.
DITF-016 Impact (Cut) Test After sterilization, samples were inoculated in a
range of methods. Following inoculation, assembled
Test Number DITF-016 layered stacks (A/ B/ C/ D) were incubated over a one-
Name of test Impact (Cut) Test week period. During the incubation period, the sole
Applicable Standard DIN EN 13567 nutrient source microorganisms could use, were those
Requirement tested A-RQ4 available from the textile itself.
Test description: The method is used to determine
resistance to puncture. 3.4.3 Test B
A similar approach to Test A was performed to test
Description: A drop body, in which the sample is the individual textiles’ microbial adhesion/ colonization/
clamped, falls in almost free fall with about 6 m/s onto a growth potential by again only providing nutrient
vertically arranged measuring mandrel with a force sources available due to the textiles’ chemical
measuring device, which penetrates the sample almost composition. Following a set of sterilization and
without speed reduction. inoculation procedures, individual textile samples have
been incubated over a one-week period, like the layered
stacks in Test A.

Fig.20. Impact test illustration. Credit: DITF

3.4 Biological Growth

[A-RQ6] Test of the biological growth potential (for
inner layers)

3.4.1 OEWF-04 Biological Growth Test

Requirements for a microbial growth test on space
suit textiles:
• Test if the textile has a broad biocidal effect
(mix of a broad spectrum of (soil/human skin)
microorganisms - Bacteria, Actinobacteria,
Archaea and Fungi).
• Test if a sterilization of the textiles is possible
and if the textile gets damaged during.
Several custom-made laboratory test procedures
have been designed together with the Institute of
Microbiology, University of Innsbruck. In total 4 Tests
Fig.21. PExTex textile candidates configured for Test –
B. Credit: OeWF
3.4.4 Test C
A “worst case” scenario approach was developed to
test the textiles’ microbial adhesion/ colonization/
growth potential by providing optimal growth
conditions for microorganisms – a complete medium
and optimal growth temperatures (37°C). To provide
optimal growth conditions a fluid culture (complete
medium) was prepared and textile samples have been
incubated over-night.

IAC-20-A1.VP.57714 Page 20 of 21
 71st International Astronautical Congress (IAC) – The CyberSpace Edition, 12-14 October 2020.
Copyright ©2020 by the International Astronautical Federation (IAF). All rights reserved.
3.4.5 Test D
Was developed to test the maximum absorbency/
adhesion capability of the different textile candidates.
The presumption is, that microorganisms introduced to
the textiles through sweat or other fluids potentially can
be absorbed by the textile or attach to the textiles’
fibres.
Results
As a result of the test campaign described in the paper,
the selected candidate materials will be compared and
analyzed based on their result from their pre tensile
strength vs post thermal vacuum tensile test vs post-cold
vacuum tensile test vs post pressure cycling tensile test
vs tensile strength while being exposed to 120°C vs
tensile strength while being exposed to -180°C vs post
aging chamber tensile test vs post-radiation fatigue test.
The comparative analysis will also further be extended
to the materials discharge behavior, bendability, LOI
level, abrasion resistance level, EMC shielding and
thermal abilities.
CONCLUSION:
Materials are now under testing as individual
materials and also as 4 defined functional layered
combinations or ‘stacks’, using the test methods shown
and the results shall be assessed using the requirements
defined in this paper. The outcome of the assessment
shall lead to a refinement of the proposed functional
layered combinations with the intent of developing them
in future applications for lunar exploration activities.
This work was carried out under a program of and
funded by the European Space Agency (ESA
40000126066). However, the views expressed herein
can in no way be taken to reflect the official opinion of
the European Space Agency and are not intended to
endorse particular technologies, companies, or products.
The Authors are grateful to all experts who contributed
to the discussions around the PEXTEX project.
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IAC-20-A1.VP.57714
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