Structure–property relationships for high thermal conductivity carbon fibers

Abstract

Previous work at Clemson University has shown that ribbon-shaped mesophase pitch-based carbon fibers graphitized at only 2400°C can develop thermal conductivities comparable with those of commercial round-shaped pitch-based carbon fibers graphitized at temperatures above 3000°C. The thermal and electronic transport properties (i.e. thermal conductivity and electrical resistivity) of ribbon-shaped carbon fibers produced at Clemson University are being studied. In addition, the structure of these fibers is being analyzed by electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction techniques. This paper will discuss the relationships between processing conditions, fiber structure and fiber properties.