Probing Physicochemical Performances of 3D-Printed Carbon Fiber Composites During 8-Month Exposure to Space Environment

This study evaluated the long-term physicochemical and mechanical stability of 3D-printed carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites after prolonged exposure to the low Earth orbit (LEO) environment aboard the International Space Station. Additively manufactured CFRPs were compared against forged and compression-molded CFRPs following 8.6 months of exposure to vacuum, radiation, atomic oxygen, and extreme thermal cycling. Extensive surface, chemical, and thermal analyses revealed oxidation and contamination confined to the outer surface layers, while bulk material properties remained intact. Local mechanical measurements demonstrated that space exposure did not significantly alter surface hardness or structural integrity, supporting the suitability of 3D-printed CFRPs for aerospace and in-space manufacturing applications.