Multi-functional protective assemblies, systems including protective assemblies, and related methods

A protective assembly, comprising:

• a first region comprising a composite of reinforcing material in a matrix material, the first region formulated and configured to provide protection from alpha, beta, and electromagnetic radiation;
• a second region comprising a composite of reinforcing material in a matrix material, the second region formulated and configured to provide protection from ballistic impact;
• and
• a third region comprising a composite of particles and fiber in a matrix material, the third region formulated and configured to provide protection from thermal radiation;
• wherein the matrix material of at least two of the first region, the second region, or the third region comprises a substantially similar material.

An aerospace structure comprising:

• an aerospace structure body;
• and
• a protective assembly formed on an exterior surface of the aerospace structure body, the protective assembly comprising:
• a first region comprising a composite of particles and polymer, the first region formulated and configured to provide protection from alpha, beta, and electromagnetic radiation;
• a second region comprising a composite of fibers and polymer, the second region formulated and configured to provide protection from ballistic impact;
• and
• a third region comprising a composite of particles, fiber, and polymer, the third region formulated and configured to provide protection from thermal radiation;
• wherein at least two of the first region, the second region, or the third region comprises a common polymer.

A method of forming a protective assembly for an aerospace structure, comprising:

• mounting a protective assembly over an aerospace structure body, the protective assembly comprising:
• a first region comprising a composite of particles and polymer, the first region formulated and configured to provide protection from alpha, beta, and electromagnetic radiation;
• a second region comprising a composite of fibers and polymer, the second region formulated and configured to provide protection from ballistic impact;
• and
• a third region comprising a composite of particles, fiber, and polymer, the third region formulated and configured to provide protection from thermal radiation;
• wherein the first region, the second region, and the third region are each provided in an at least partially uncured state;
• and
• co-curing the protective assembly to form a chemical bond between adjacent regions of the first region, the second region, and the third region and to attach the protective assembly to the aerospace structure body.