Analysis of Space Radiation Environment Worthiness for Aerospace Pyrotechnic Devices and Several Research Recommendations

YU Xiezheng; CHEN Biyu; ZHU Chenguang; ZHANG Wenchao

doi:10.7643/issn.1672-9242.2026.06.003

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Equipment Environmental Engineering ›› 2026, Vol. 23 ›› Issue (6) : 27-41. DOI: 10.7643/issn.1672-9242.2026.06.003

Analysis of Space Radiation Environment Worthiness for Aerospace Pyrotechnic Devices and Several Research Recommendations

YU Xiezheng, CHEN Biyu, ZHU Chenguang^*, ZHANG Wenchao

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Abstract

Conducting in-depth research on the space radiation environment worthiness of space pyrotechnic devices is of great significance for enhancing the reliability of long-term on-orbit missions and supporting future deep-space exploration endeavors. Based on the structural and material characteristics of typical space pyrotechnic devices, the eight major failure modes were analyzed and the potential failure mechanisms induced by space radiation environment factors in energetic materials and pyrotechnic devices were further examined. The results indicated that energetic materials and pyrotechnic devices were inevitably affected by various radiation effects in long-term space radiation environments. These effects continuously coupled and accumulated over time, leading to a progressive decline in the performance and reliability of the devices, and might even cause unintentional ignition or complete failure, directly impacting mission success. Finally, it was proposed to deepen research from three aspects: ground-based equivalent simulation, on-orbit physical verification, and the development of innovative materials and protection systems, so as to promote the continuous evolution of space pyrotechnic technology toward higher reliability, longer life, and better worthiness to extreme environments.

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space environment / energetic materials / aerospace pyrotechnic device / environment worthiness / radiation / failure mode

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YU Xiezheng, CHEN Biyu, ZHU Chenguang, ZHANG Wenchao. Analysis of Space Radiation Environment Worthiness for Aerospace Pyrotechnic Devices and Several Research Recommendations[J]. Equipment Environmental Engineering. 2026, 23(6): 27-41 https://doi.org/10.7643/issn.1672-9242.2026.06.003

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