Processing, structure, and properties of carbon fibers

Carbon fiber is increasingly being utilized as a reinforcing material due to its high strength and high modulus, which is imparted into the properties of the final composite. A comprehensive review of the carbon fiber production process, from polymerization to fiber spinning and stabilization and carbonization, is provided. Relationships between carbon fiber microstructure and material performance is undertaken in order to assess the current status of the mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties of commercially available PAN and pitch based carbon fibers, as well as recently developed experimental carbon fibers. A discussion of next generation carbon fibers is also provided, with a discussion on carbon fiber derived from alternative precursor materials, as well as hierarchical carbon fiber composites.