A Review of Deployability and Multi-Functionality in CFRP-Based Spacecraft Structures
ORCID
Behera: https://orcid.org/0009-0008-9241-8688; Khare: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0138-0431
MSU Affiliation
James Worth Bagley College of Engineering; Department of Aerospace Engineering
Creation Date
2026-10-02
Abstract
This study is inspired by the evolving capabilities of CFRP based deployable spacecraft structures and comprehensively presents their progress on spacecraft structures over the past two decades. The deployable structures are extensively discussed in three complementary categories—deployability, multiscale characterization, and multifunctionality. For each category, the research findings are comprehensively reviewed, detailing advances in self-deployability, multiscale characterization, and embedded and self-induced multifunctionality. With the constant demand for operations in small spacecraft technology and multifunctionality scope, CFRP based structures are being researched. It has inspired developments in improving functionalities such as thermal conductivity, electrical conductivity, self-sensing and self-healing mechanisms, and shape memory actuation. Multiscale characterization of the advanced CFRP composites through said improvements in functionality are aimed at addressing the current issues associated with deployability and operation in current technology demonstration missions. This may help to foster innovative ideas for emerging applications such as advanced propulsion techniques, permanent habitation, and re-usability of components, thus laying the groundwork for sustained human presence in space and advancing the capabilities of spaceflight and space missions.
Keywords
spacecraft structures, deployability, multifunctionality, CFRP
Publication Date
9-4-2026
Publication Title
Composite Structures
Publisher
Elsevier
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Rights
© 2026 The Authors
Recommended Citation
Behera, A. P. A., & Khare, V. (2026). A review of deployability and multi-functionality in CFRP-based spacecraft structures. Composite Structures, 397, 120815. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.compstruct.2026.120815
