Applications carbon fiber surfaces

The surface properties of carbon fibers are intimately related to the internal structure of the fiber itself, which needs to be understood if the surface properties are to be modified for specific end applications. Carbon fibers have been made from a number of different precursors, including polyacrylonitrile (PAN), rayon (cellulose) and mesophase pitch. The majority of commercial carbon fibers currently produced are based on PAN, while those based on rayon and pitch are produced in very limited quantities for special applications. Therefore, the discussion of fiber surface treatments in this section is mostly related to PAN-based carbon fibers, unless otherwise specified. 

Delamar, M., G. Desarmot, O. Fagehaume, R. Hitmi, J. Pinson, and J.-M. Saveant. Modification of carbon fiber surfaces by electrochemical reduction of aryl diazonium salts Application to carbon epoxy composites. Carbon 35,1997 801—807. 

In addition to the particulate adsorbents listed in Table 16-5, some adsorbents are available in structured form for specific applications. Monoliths, papers, and paint formulations have been developed for zeolites, with these driven by the development of wheels (Fig. 16-60), adsorptive refrigeration, etc. Carbon monoliths are also available as are activated carbon fibers, created from polymeric materials, and sold in the forms of fabrics, mats, felts, and papers for use in various applications including in pleated form in filters. Zeolitic and carbon membranes are also available, with the latter developed for separation by selective surface flow [Rao and Sircar, J. Membrane Sci., 85, 253 (1993)]. 

Figure 5.107 Variation in toughness and shear strength for various surface treatments of continuous carbon fiber-reinforced composites. Reprinted, by permission, from T. L. Vigo and B. J. Kinzig, ed.. Composite Applications, p. 224. Copyright 1992 by VCH Publishing, Inc.

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