Carbon fiber (also called graphite fiber) is a material consisting of fibers about 5-10 micrometers in diameter and composed mostly of carbon atoms. The carbon atoms are bonded together in a microscopic crystalline patterns. The result is a very strong and lightweight material used in a wide range of products such as aerospace and automotive parts, sporting goods, and many other high-tech applications.
Carbon fiber has excellent strength and stiffness properties compared to conventional materials such as aluminum and steel. It also has excellent fatigue resistance and chemical resistance. Carbon fibers are used in advanced composites which take advantage of their light weight, high strength, and special physical and electrical properties. Carbon fiber is also used for its electrical and thermal properties, as well as its durability and resistance to heat.
Carbon fiber is usually very expensive, partly because of the labor and difficulty involved in manufacturing process. Carbon fiber requires skilled handling, from fiber spinning to curing of the composite materials. It is difficult to machine and work with the composites, requiring the use of special production techniques. As a result, carbon fiber based composite parts are typically labor intensive.
Despite this, carbon fiber provides exceptional stiffness, strength and low weight, making it an attractive option for aerospace and military applications that demand the highest levels of performance. The superior performance makes it increasingly popular in luxury products like high performance automobiles, boats, and even furniture.
Carbon fiber is also finding its way into many everyday consumer products. Its superior strength allows it to be formed into complex shapes without compromising its strength, making it useful for a variety of products including bicycle frames and medical implants.
