Adaptive dual-mode thermal management devices with dynamic asymmetric structure for deep space exploration

Radiative thermal management is crucial for deep space exploration spacecraft. However, most thermal management materials are static and single-functional, failing to adapt to the complex thermal environment of deep space exploration. Here, a method for regulating thermal radiation using asymmetric structures is proposed to meet the dynamic thermal management requirements of deep space exploration spacecraft. The thermal adaptive management material with shape memory Janus array (TAMSJ) was constructed by replication molding and surface modification. In contrast to traditional strategies for variable emissivity control that depend on phase transitions, TAMSJ employs the dynamic deformation of temperature responsive asymmetric structures. The structure of the shape memory Janus array can be transformed between collapsed and tilted states, allowing for adaptive switching between thermal insulation and radiative cooling modes. This innovative thermal management can achieve a broader range of variable emissivity amplitudes. The infrared emissivity of the thermal insulation mode and radiative cooling mode is 0.04 and 0.90, respectively. Compared with traditional materials with a single fixed thermal control mode, effective temperature control can be achieved by TAMSJ. This study provides valuable references for the application of shape memory Janus arrays in dynamic thermal management in deep space exploration.