This Standard details a test in which pressure-sensitive tapes are used to assess the suitability of, for example, coatings, paints, films and other thin materials, proposed for use on spacecraft and associated equipment.
Surface coatings, such as thermal control paints and corrosion protection coatings, are affected, both on the ground and after launch, by exposure to the environment.
It is therefore important that the adhesion of the coating to the relevant substrate remains at an acceptable level after exposure to the relevant environmental condition.
The following materials and assemblies are covered by this test method:
organic coating, e.g. varnishes, paints and plastic films;
metallic finishes on, for example, printed circuit boards, second-surface mirrors, thermal radiators, plastic films;
adhesive layers;
composite thin films;
small assemblies, e.g. solar cells having attached glass covers.
This standard may be tailored for the specific characteristics and constrains of a space project in conformance with ECSS-S-ST-00.