Evaluation of high-thermal-conductivity graphite fibers for thermal management in electronics applications

High thermal conductivity carbon fibers are orthotropic, having significantly different properties in the longitudinal (650 - 1100 W/mK) and radial directions (15 - 50 W/mK). These fibers can function like thermal 'pipes' to directionally transport heat from one location to another. The potential of such high thermal conductivity materials to facilitate enhanced thermal management in miniaturized electronics systems used in space applications is considered. Visualization of heat flow using time-resolved infrared imaging and analysis of the capabilities of different fabricated structures for directing heat flow will be described.