Cut Resistance Analysis of Glove Thermal Micrometeoroid Garment Materials for Constellation Space Suit Systems Design Considerations

During STS-116 extravehicular activity (EVA), a crewmember received a cut in the Glove Thermal Micrometeoroid Garment (TMG) as a result of contact with an unknown, external sharp object that did not meet sharp edge requirements. Since that mission, several additional gloves have experienced similar damage. Although sharp edge requirements exist for equipment interfaces with the space suits, damage to equipment can produce sharp edge conditions. In addition, crewmembers may be required to handle equipment or items not intended for crew contact resulting in exposure. This hazardous condition will still be possible for Constellation missions and therefore will continue to be a concern for the Constellation Space Suits System (CSSS) program.

An investigation has been conducted into the cut glove TMG including material property reviews, material cut resistance properties, Glove response to cuts and system impacts. This paper will discuss the observations of EMU SSA Glove TMG cut events as well as the factors and contributors associated with cuts. The paper will also discuss cut test data, material limitations and design considerations for preventing cuts from external sharp surfaces.