Protective, Sacrificial Coats On Optical Surfaces

Abstract

Clear, easily cleaned sacrificial coats of polytetrafluoroethylene, polyurethane, silicone, or other low-outgassing organic films help maintain optical properties of surfaces of radiators, solar panels, and other components. Contamination removed by erosion of coats. Applied by conventional spraying or other techniques. Originally coats intended to protect surfaces of radiators on spacecraft in low orbit around the Earth. On Earth, used to protect optical surfaces against damage during manufacture or protect and facilitate cleaning of optical surfaces particularly delicate or otherwise not cleaned easily.