Blog
23rd February 2023
When we think of space exploration, we often think of the incredible technology that makes it possible. But we often overlook one of the most important tools for human spaceflight: the spacesuit. Designed to protect astronauts from the harsh conditions of space, spacesuits have come a long way since the first spacewalk in 1965. Today's spacesuits are marvels of engineering and rely heavily on advanced materials and chemicals to keep astronauts safe and comfortable. In this article, we'll explore the chemistry behind astronaut suits, looking at the materials and chemicals used to protect humans in space.
Materials Used in Astronaut Suits
Astronaut suits are made up of many different materials, each with a specific purpose. Some of the most common materials used in astronaut suits include:
1. Neoprene
Neoprene is a synthetic rubber material that is used in the gloves and boots of the suit, as well as in the seals around the openings of the suit. Neoprene has excellent resistance to water, oils, and chemicals, making it a perfect material for space use. Additionally, neoprene remains flexible at low temperatures, which is important in the extreme cold of space.
2. Gore-Tex
Gore-Tex is a waterproof and breathable fabric used in the outer layer of the spacesuit. The material is made up of a membrane with pores that are small enough to prevent liquid water from passing through but large enough to allow water vapor to escape. This allows the astronaut's body to breathe and prevents them from overheating. Gore-Tex is also resistant to chemicals, making it ideal for use in the harsh environment of space.
3. Kevlar
Kevlar is a strong and durable material that is used in areas that need to be particularly resistant to abrasion and puncture, such as the knees and elbows. Kevlar is a type of aramid fiber that is five times stronger than steel, yet much lighter. It is also used in the helmet of the suit to protect the astronaut's head from impacts.
4. Teflon
Teflon is a non-stick material that is used as a coating on some of the internal components of the spacesuit, such as the cooling tubes. Teflon is chosen for its excellent resistance to high temperatures and chemicals, making it ideal for use in the harsh environment of space.
5. Mylar
Mylar is a type of polyester film that is used in the insulation layers of the suit. Mylar is an excellent insulator and is used to keep the astronaut's body warm in the extreme cold of space.
6. Nomex
Nomex is a fire-resistant material that is used in the inner layer of the suit. Nomex is a type of aramid fiber that is similar to Kevlar but is designed to be fire-resistant. This material is important because it protects the astronaut in the event of a fire or other emergency.
7. Aluminum
Aluminum is used in the construction of the suit's frame, which provides support and structure. The frame is designed to distribute the weight of the suit evenly, making it easier for the astronaut to move around in the weightlessness of space.
Chemicals Used in Astronaut Suits
In addition to the materials used in astronaut suits, there are also several chemicals that are crucial to their operation. These chemicals help to keep astronauts alive and comfortable in the harsh environment of space. Let's take a closer look at some of the most important chemicals used in astronaut suits.
Lithium hydroxide is a chemical that is used to remove carbon dioxide from the air inside the spacesuit. When astronauts exhale, they release carbon dioxide, which can build up inside the suit and become toxic if not removed. Lithium hydroxide absorbs carbon dioxide and converts it into lithium carbonate, which is then stored inside the suit. This chemical is vital to the astronaut's survival because it allows them to breathe clean air and avoid carbon dioxide poisoning.
2. Oxygen
Oxygen is obviously essential for human survival, and it is no different in space. Astronauts need a constant supply of oxygen to breathe, and their suits are equipped with oxygen tanks to provide it. The oxygen is circulated through the suit's ventilation system, which ensures that the astronaut has a steady supply of fresh air. Without this chemical, astronauts would quickly run out of air and suffocate.
3. Antifungal Agents
Space is a harsh environment, and the inside of astronaut suits can become quite humid. This humidity can lead to the growth of mold and other fungi, which can be dangerous for the astronaut's health. To prevent this, astronaut suits are treated with antifungal agents that kill any mold or fungi that might start to grow. These agents help to keep the inside of the suit clean and free of harmful microorganisms.
4. Propylene Glycol
Propylene glycol is a chemical that is used in the suit's cooling system. The cooling system works by circulating water through a series of tubes that run throughout the suit. The water is cooled using a heat exchanger, which uses propylene glycol as a coolant. Propylene glycol has a low freezing point, which allows it to remain liquid even at extremely low temperatures. This is important because the cooling system needs to continue functioning even in the extreme cold of space.
Astronaut suits are marvels of engineering, designed to protect humans in one of the harshest environments imaginable. These suits rely on advanced materials and chemicals to keep astronauts safe and comfortable, from the neoprene and Gore-Tex used in the suit's outer layer to the lithium hydroxide and oxygen that keep the astronaut alive. While we often focus on the technology that makes space exploration possible, it's important to remember that the humble spacesuit is just as vital to the success of human spaceflight. Through the careful use of materials and chemicals, these suits allow us to explore the mysteries of space and push the boundaries of human achievement.