- Number 303 |
- January 18, 2010
Center explores low-cost carbon fiber
ORNL’s new carbon
fiber research center
can help strengthen
U.S. automotive and
energy industries.
Shown here is carbon
fiber from a microwave
assisted plasma unit
at ORNL.
A new, stimulus-funded research center at DOE's Oak Ridge National Laboratory could help strengthen the very 'fiber' of America's automotive and energy industries. The Carbon Fiber Technology Center will enable the development and commercialization of low-cost carbon fiber for use in composite materials.
Carbon fiber composite material is a polymer matrix composite that weighs significantly less than steel yet offers comparable strength and performance in vehicle applications. ORNL is also exploring the use of carbon fiber composite materials in other energy-related applications such as blades and towers for wind turbines and industrial technologies.
[Kathy Graham, 865.946.1861,
grahamkj@ornl.gov]
