Analysis of TQCM surface contamination adsorbed during the Spacelab I MissionThe Temperature-Controlled Quartz Crystal Microbalance (TQCM) system was flown on the Spacelab I Mission as part of the Induced Environment Contamination Monitor to monitor surface contamination (SC) in the payload bay. SC on the five sensors of the TQCM was analyzed by means of IR spectroscopy, scanning electron spectroscopy, and energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence. The amount of SC ranged from 1.4 micrograms/sq cm for the -Z sensor to 39.9 micrograms/sq cm for the +X sensor. The IR analysis showed strong CH2, CH3, and carbonyl absorption bands, indicative of ester and polyester compounds found in adhesives, plasticizers, and tape. The particulates (mostly ranging from 1 micron to 20 microns in size) were mainly composed of Mg, Al, Al2O3, and Si, and probably originated in the solid rocket firings.
Document ID
19860029655
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Mckeown, D. (Faraday Laboratories, Inc. La Jolla, CA, United States)
Fountain, J. A. (Faraday Labs., Inc. La Jolla, CA, United States)
Cox, V. H. (NASA Marshall Space Flight Center Huntsville, AL, United States)
Peterson, R. V. (Aerospace Corp. Los Angeles, CA, United States)