Carbon fibers are a polymer of carbon atoms structured in graphitic form, i.e. by hexagons linked together to form graphitic carbon planes.
They are obtained from synthetic chemical compounds, deriving from coal and oil and reduced into more or less long filaments. They are distinguished on the basis of the starting raw materials, organic and inorganic, and the manufacturing processes.
Main features
• high electrical and thermal conductivity
• chemical inertness (except to oxidation)
• high mechanical characteristics (flexibility, elastic modulus and high strength).