An integrated, multi-functional intrinsic responsive foldable protective layer for space station solar panels

The functionalized foldable protective layer proficiently alleviates the potential detriment endured by space station solar panels due to prolonged and uninterrupted exposure to the environment. Soft actuators demonstrate significant value in foldable protective layers due to their intrinsic response characteristics and programmability. However, current soft actuators still struggle to meet the requirements of work stability and scene applicability in the space environment. A PMT (Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)/Multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs)-Thermoplastic polyimides (TPI)) soft actuator was proposed to address this issue in this paper. The PMT soft actuators exhibit strong interlayer interfacial adhesion, stable physical and chemical performance, and excellent mechanical performance. Notably, the PMT soft actuators can sense thermal, electric fields, infrared light, and mechanical force simultaneously with only one active layer. Furthermore, analytical models were calibrated to provide predictions, and the thermal and photoelectric actuation processes of PMT soft actuators with different structures and application scenes were predicted accurately. The experimental results validated the application value of PMT actuators as foldable protective layers for space station solar panels. The preparation, testing, application, and model construction of the PMT system provide new research ideas and development opportunities for the practical application of functional polymers in intelligent sensing and actuation systems.