Influence of MeV protons on mechanical properties of ITO/aluminum-coated Kapton designed for space missions

Cyclotron generated MeV protons were used to evaluate the mechanical behavior such as tensile strength and elongation of ITO/aluminum-coated Kapton that is known to be one of the most useful polymers for space missions. The mechanical properties (tensile strength and elongation) of specimens irradiated with high-energy protons were lower then those irradiated with low energy protons. A considerable increase in the mechanical properties was found at irradiation with lower fluencies that is explained by the unique characteristics of the molecular structure of Kapton. The ITO and aluminum coatings on Kapton, while contributing to the mechanical strength of the coated Kapton, were found to be affected by the proton irradiation.