The effect of partially carbonized fibers on the mechanical properties of carbon/carbon composites

The carbon/carbon (C/C) composite with satisfactory mechanical properties were obtained through introduction of partially carbonized fibers as a precursor. Applying this procedure the production cost of C/C composites may be significantly reduced. Stabilized PAN fibers were partially carbonized at temperatures ranging from 400 to 1000 degrees C and reinforced with phenolic resin, resole type. Cured composite were carbonized up to 1000 degrees C in an inert atmosphere. Monofilament tensile test strength, Young's modulus and tensile strength of partially carbonized fibers were determined. Mechanical properties of carbon/carbon composites (flexural strength and flexural modulus) determined by using three-point bending test. The effect of partially carbonized fibers on the mechanical properties of C/C composites was examined by scanning electron microscope (SEM) through analysis of the fracture surface. The C/C composite reinforced with partially carbonized fibers at 600 degrees C showed quite satisfactory flexural strength. This confirms assumptions that through co-carbonization of partially carbonized fibers and resin C/C composite with suitable mechanical properties could be obtained. (C) 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.