Protecting space solar arrays
with one atomic layer of graphene.
We are developing graphene-based coatings that extend the operational lifetime of commercial space photovoltaic systems — addressing degradation mechanisms that no current product on the market solves.
Space solar arrays lose power silently — and it costs missions.
Every satellite in orbit is powered by solar arrays that degrade throughout their operational life. The orbital environment progressively attacks the module assembly — independent of cell quality — through four distinct physical mechanisms.
The four principal degradation mechanisms acting on space solar modules in low-Earth and geostationary orbit.
Atomic oxygen erosion
In low-Earth orbit, residual atmospheric oxygen atoms travel at high relative velocity and erode exposed organic and polymeric materials at the module perimeter — creating failure pathways that compound over the mission lifetime.
UV photodegradation
Unfiltered solar UV radiation drives photochemical bond cleavage in adhesive and polymer components. Without protection, this yellows and weakens the materials that hold module assemblies together.
Electrostatic discharge
In geostationary orbit, energetic electrons accumulate on insulating module surfaces until they discharge in arc events — a documented cause of satellite anomalies and irreversible power degradation.
Thermal fatigue
Satellites in low-Earth orbit experience dozens of temperature cycles daily, driving thermomechanical stress that progressively degrades adhesive bonding integrity at coverglass interfaces.
These mechanisms are well-documented in peer-reviewed science and NASA engineering handbooks — yet no commercially available drop-in solution currently addresses them at the module coverglass level without requiring cell redesign.
Graphene — the thinnest material ever isolated. And remarkably versatile.
Discovered in 2004 at the University of Manchester (2010 Nobel Prize in Physics), graphene is a single atomic layer of carbon arranged in a hexagonal lattice. Its combination of chemical inertness, optical transparency, electrical conductivity, and near-zero mass makes it uniquely suited for space surface protection.
The hexagonal graphene lattice (left) and six key properties that make it relevant to space photovoltaic surface protection (right). References: [1] Zhang 2020, [2] NASA-HDBK-4002B, [3] Nair 2008.
Chemical inertness
Graphene's aromatic carbon bonds are resistant to atomic oxygen attack — confirmed by peer-reviewed experimental studies in ground-simulated LEO conditions [1].
Optical transparency
Each monolayer absorbs only ~2.3% of incident light — a universal quantum mechanical property tied to the fine-structure constant that cannot be changed by processing [3].
Conductivity
Doped graphene achieves controllable sheet resistance within the range specified by NASA engineering handbooks for passive electrostatic charge bleed-off [2].
Graphene-based coatings for space photovoltaics.
We are developing graphene functional layers targeting different aspects of space solar cell degradation — from surface protection to next-generation electrode architectures. Our programme is sequenced by technical readiness, with an initial focus on near-term, drop-in compatible solutions.
From laboratory to qualified product — based in Abu Dhabi.
Our programme is anchored in Abu Dhabi, with access to world-class graphene synthesis, characterisation, and space environment simulation capabilities. International qualification testing is conducted in partnership with leading European accredited facilities.
Materials synthesis, coating optimisation, and screening tests at our research laboratory. IP protection filed before any public disclosure.
Formal qualification testing at internationally accredited facilities — atomic oxygen beam, outgassing, radiation, and thermal cycling per space standards.
Module-level testing with industry partners and first commercial pilot supply agreements. Full Technology Readiness Level 4 data package.
Our collaboration network
University Research Lab
Primary laboratory partner providing graphene synthesis, surface characterisation, and space environment simulation capabilities.
Applied Research Institute
Applied research collaboration for materials development and co-development programmes.
Academic Chemistry Group
Expertise in next-generation photovoltaic chemistry for longer-horizon product development.
International Test Facilities
Internationally accredited space qualification testing laboratories for formal environmental campaigns.
Grounded in peer-reviewed science.
Every claim in our technical programme is supported by published, peer-reviewed experimental evidence. Key references are listed below.
Interested in what we're building?
We welcome conversations with space array integrators, satellite OEMs, research institutions, and deep-tech investors who share our conviction that graphene can extend the productive life of space solar power systems.
contact@graphenespacepv.com
