Atomic Oxygen Protection Coating for Low Earth Orbit Applications
Defending Spacecraft Surfaces from Atomic Oxygen Erosion
Developed by Diamond Coatings Ltd
Leaders in Advanced Thin-Film and Optical Coating Technologies
The Challenge: Atomic Oxygen in Low Earth Orbit
In Low Earth Orbit (LEO), spacecraft travel at speeds approaching 8 km/s through an environment rich in highly reactive atomic oxygen (AO). This aggressive element continuously attacks exposed materials — breaking chemical bonds, oxidising polymers, and eroding even advanced composites.
Over time, AO exposure can:
• Degrade structural and optical materials
• Diminish surface transparency
• Reduce mission lifespan and reliability
The Solution: Diamond Coatings’ AO Protection Coating
Diamond Coatings Ltd is developing a next-generation Atomic Oxygen Protection Coating, engineered to provide a durable, stable, and optically clear barrier against AO erosion.
Drawing upon advanced research into vacuum coatings and other ceramic materials, our formulation combines exceptional hardness, wear resistance, and chemical stability, delivering long-term performance in the harshest orbital environments.
Key Advantages
- Exceptional Atomic Oxygen Resistance: Forms a dense, chemically inert barrier that prevents AO-induced oxidation and erosion of spacecraft materials.
- Increased Hardness & Durability: Resistant to micro-abrasion, mechanical stress, and high-velocity particle impacts.
- Optically Transparent: Ideal for viewing windows and domes, sensor windows, and optical housings requiring minimal distortion and maximum light transmission.
- Thermal & Chemical Stability: Maintains integrity across extreme temperature cycles and vacuum conditions.
- Excellent Adhesion to Substrates: Bonds effectively to glass, quartz, sapphire, PMMA, Polycarbonates and composite materials.
- Low Outgassing & Contamination Resistance: Suitable for vacuum environments and optical instruments.
Applications
- Viewing Windows & Optical Domes – For transparent observation and sensor interfaces in spacecraft, satellites, and space stations.
- Composite Structures – Protection for lightweight carbon fibre or polymer composites exposed to AO.
- Thermal Protection Systems – Acts as a barrier layer for components subject to atomic oxygen and thermal cycling.
- Solar Array Covers & Instrument Housings – Extends service life by preventing AO-induced degradation.
Research-Driven Innovation
Building on studies into coatings as an Atomic Oxygen barrier, Diamond Coatings’ R&D team have worked in partnership with customers and stakeholders in the industry to develop a qualified, tested and reliable Atomic Oxygen Protection Coating.
Our approach ensures each coating is custom-engineered for mission-specific requirements, offering maximum transparency and protection where it matters most.
Why Diamond Coatings
- Proven expertise in optical and conductive thin-film coatings for aerospace and defence
- Collaborative development with leading space technology organisations
- ISO-certified manufacturing with facilities in the UK & USA
- Decades of experience in vacuum deposition and multi-layer coating systems
Contact Us
Protect your spacecraft with cutting-edge AO-resistant coatings.
Email: Enquiries@diamondcoatings.co.uk
