Aliphatic/Aromatic Hybrid Polymers for Functionally Graded Radiation Shielding

High hydrogen-content aliphatic polymers have been identified as good for shielding against galactic cosmic radiation. However, their utility in structural elements is limited to modest temperatures where desirable mechanical properties are maintained. On the other hand, aromatic polymers generally have a broader range of operating temperatures but are less effective as radiation shields. The radiation shielding properties of aromatic polymers is enhanced by the incorporation of hydrogen-rich aliphatic groups appended to aromatic units in the macromolecular structure. It is envisioned that functionally graded polymer structures using aliphatic/aromatic hybrids can be used to meet the requirements of the service environment with beneficial radiation shielding properties in future space structural applications. This paper discusses the syntheses of such hybrid polymers.