How Is Carbon Fibre Made? | The Science Lesson You Always Dreamed Of!

Summary

This video delves into the fascinating world of carbon fiber, exploring its origins, production processes, and applications in high-performance items like bicycles. It begins with the chemistry of carbon, highlighting the transformation of acrylonitrile into polyacrylonitrile, which is then carbonized to create strong fibers. The importance of resin as a matrix is discussed, emphasizing its role in enhancing the material's strength and durability. The video also touches on future advancements, such as the potential use of carbon nanotubes and greener manufacturing practices, making it an engaging overview for enthusiasts and those curious about material science.

Takeaways

• 😀 Carbon fiber is a versatile material used in a wide range of products, from bicycles to aerospace applications.
• 😀 The primary building block of carbon fiber is acrylonitrile, produced through a chemical reaction involving propene and ammonia.
• 😀 The manufacturing process includes polymerization, where acrylonitrile molecules bond to form polyacrylonitrile (PAN) chains.
• 😀 Oxidation is a crucial step that aligns the PAN fibers and enhances their strength by cross-linking.
• 😀 Carbonization involves heating the fibers to over 1000°C in an oxygen-free environment, resulting in a more crystalline carbon structure.
• 😀 Carbon fibers are combined with resin to form a composite material, improving their brittleness and overall strength.
• 😀 The main producers of carbon fiber include companies like Toray, Hexcel, and Mitsubishi, with Toray being the largest.
• 😀 Future advancements in carbon fiber manufacturing may focus on stronger resins and fibers, such as carbon nanotubes.
• 😀 Efforts are being made to develop greener manufacturing processes, utilizing plant-based precursors for carbon fiber production.
• 😀 Recycling carbon fiber remains a challenge, but research is ongoing to make it more sustainable and recyclable.

Q & A

What is carbon fiber and why is it considered a wonder material?

Carbon fiber is a lightweight, high-strength material used in various applications, including sports equipment, vehicles, and aerospace. Its versatility and strength make it a 'wonder material' in many industries.

How is acrylic nitrile related to carbon fiber production?

Acrylic nitrile is a key building block for carbon fiber, produced through a chemical reaction between propene gas and ammonia. It undergoes polymerization to form polyacrylonitrile, which is the primary material used in carbon fiber manufacturing.

What is the significance of cross-linking in carbon fiber?

Cross-linking involves joining carbon fiber strands together, which enhances the material's strength and stability. This process helps prevent the fibers from tearing in different directions.

What happens during the carbonization process?

During carbonization, carbon fiber strands are heated to over 1000 degrees Celsius in an oxygen-free environment, which removes non-carbon atoms and strengthens the fiber structure, improving its mechanical properties.

Why are carbon fibers combined with a resin?

Carbon fibers are combined with resin, known as a matrix, to create a composite material that enhances strength and reduces brittleness, making it suitable for various applications.

What are some methods used to improve carbon fiber adhesion?

Surface roughening of carbon fibers, often using nitric acid, and applying a special coating called sizing help improve adhesion with the resin, ensuring better performance of the final composite material.

Who are the major producers of carbon fiber?

Major producers include Toray, a Japanese company, as well as Hexcel, Mitsubishi, and SGL Carbon, each specializing in different types of carbon fiber for various applications.

What advancements are being researched for carbon fiber production?

Researchers are exploring higher-performing resins, carbon nanotubes for enhanced strength, and greener manufacturing processes using biological precursors, as well as methods for recycling carbon fiber.

How long has the carbon fiber manufacturing process been developing?

The process of manufacturing carbon fiber has been under development for over 30 years, leading to significant improvements in its properties and applications.

What are some potential future applications for carbon fiber?

Future applications for carbon fiber may include even lighter and stronger materials for bikes, aerospace, and potentially bulletproof fabrics, as advancements in manufacturing techniques continue.