3D-printed 'hydrogels' could be future space radiation shields for astronaut trips to Mars

[Admin]

Technology we already use everyday might be the future of space radiation shielding.

3D-printed 'hydrogels' could be future space radiation shields for astronaut trips to Mars : Read more

 

[Mixellmaster]

Technology we already use everyday might be the future of space radiation shielding.

3D-printed 'hydrogels' could be future space radiation shields for astronaut trips to Mars : Read more

I wonder about the weight. These seem like a good idea for protection but when soaked with water will add considerable weight. Essentially wearing a full body soaked diaper.

 

[Classical Motion]

Diaper water on the inside weighs the same as water one the outside.

What we really need is a gel that we can pee in, then squeeze and have fresh water come out.

 

[billslugg]

Shielding of very high energy massive ions requires many tiny collisions to remove the energy. We don't want dangerous secondary radiation. Hydrogen is the best but is difficult to work with, water works very well. The problem with water is leakage. Hydrogel is just as good as water since it has lots of low Z atoms also, plus it won't leak.

 

[Classical Motion]

We use water to absorb nuc particle velocity and transfer that energy for electrical production. Works great. And can respond to load quickly.

I would think shielding in space would be a problem because of the temp range. And mass.

And I would guess that gel is also temp sensitive.

Some of these new metal foams can hold more H than our pressurized vessels can. A metal foam might turn out to be a very good fuel tank, or a fuel tanker. Or fuel station.

And the H could be used as a deceleration fuel at destination.