The Explosive Development of Carbon Fibers
Carbon fiber is a strong, lightweight material being used in ever-increasing applications. The carbon fibers technology has in recent years grown exponentially, becoming an essential part of the world economy. Used in everything from aerospace to automotive, medical and construction, carbon fibers have become the material of choice for companies looking to reduce the weight and cost of their products.
The production of carbon fiber is a complex process that begins with the mixing of raw materials. The base material for carbon fiber production is usually a form of polyacrylonitrile (PAN) fiber, which is made from a blend of carbon, oxygen, and hydrogen atoms. The PAN fibers are then treated in an extruder/stretching machine to align the molecular chain and produce the desired length and shape. This process creates the individual fibers, which are then combined with a binder to form the final composite.
The finished product is a long and thin strip of material that is incredibly strong and resistant to heat and corrosion. As the ultimate tensile strength of carbon fiber is greater than the strongest steel and aluminum available, it can be used where these metals cannot. In addition, it is 10 times lighter than steel and is remarkable for its rigidity and flexibility. This makes it ideal for use in products that need to be both rigid and lightweight.
Recent advancements in carbon fiber technology have been rapid. Japanese materials company Toray Industries, which has been producing carbon fiber for over 40 years, is currently the world’s largest manufacturer of carbon fiber. Toray is a pioneer in the field and is constantly introducing new products and technologies. In 2018, Toray developed a process for producing carbon fiber from air and water, courtesy of a new manufacture process known as ELECTRIUS. This has enabled them to rapidly and cost-effectively produce large quantities of high-quality carbon fiber.
The uses of carbon fiber across many industries is vast. Automobile manufactures use it to reduce the weight and increase the fuel efficiency of their vehicles. Aerospace companies use it to reduce the weight of planes, allowing more fuel and cargo capacity. Additionally, the marine industry uses carbon fiber for its strength, corrosion resistance, and light weight for faster, more efficient performance.
The medical industry also uses carbon fiber, particularly in implant surgeries and as a replacement for medal pins, as it is lightweight, yet strong enough to handle body weight. Carbon fiber has also been used in the construction of bridges and buildings; its light weight, durability and strength make it ideal for these applications.
The development of carbon fiber has had an astounding effect on the world economy. It has enabled engineers to create superior products for industries like automotive, aerospace and construction. Its use in medical applications is making life-saving surgeries more predictable and successful, while its light weight and strength are making transportation of goods more efficient and cost effective. As technology advances, and as production costs come down, it is certain that carbon fiber’s presence in the economy will continue to increase, with more innovative applications being discovered all the time.
