The development and application of new materials can drive technological advancements and industry upgrades, even propelling human society to new heights. For example, semiconductor materials have ushered us into the information age.

Globally, materials science continues to make breakthroughs, introducing a range of advanced materials like new steel alloys, advanced non-ferrous metals, and innovative petrochemical products. Among these, carbon fiber stands out for its wide-ranging applications.

A bicycle frame made from carbon fiber weighs only about 600 grams, roughly the weight of three apples. A one-meter length of T1000-grade carbon fiber, as thick as a finger, weighs only 0.5 grams yet can pull two commercial airliners. Carbon fiber products can withstand temperatures up to 3000 degrees Celsius and resist corrosion from acids, alkalis, oils, and salts. With high strength, high modulus, heat resistance, corrosion resistance, and lightweight properties, carbon fiber is heralded as the "black gold" of industry.

Properties of Carbon Fiber

Carbon fiber, an inorganic fiber with a carbon content of over 95%, is produced through polymerization, spinning, oxidation, and high-temperature carbonization. There are three main types of carbon fiber based on the raw materials: polyacrylonitrile (PAN)-based, viscose-based, and pitch-based, with PAN-based carbon fiber accounting for over 90% of the global production due to its superior performance.

Carbon fiber is characterized by its fine, lightweight structure and incredible strength. Typically 5-7 micrometers in diameter, about one-tenth the thickness of a human hair, carbon fiber has a density significantly lower than steel (1/5) and titanium (2/5). Despite its lightweight, carbon fiber is about 35 times stronger than steel. In practical applications, carbon fibers are often bundled together; a standard 12K bundle (12,000 fibers) is thinner than a pencil but can support around 130 kilograms.

Applications of Carbon Fiber

Aerospace Industry

In aerospace, the use of carbon fiber composites is a benchmark for advanced equipment. Carbon fiber materials are used in aircraft, satellites, and rockets, helping to reduce noise and fuel consumption. For instance, commercial aircraft that use carbon fiber composite blades weigh 500 kilograms less than those using traditional titanium alloys, leading to significant fuel savings and extended range.

Automotive and Wind Power

In the automotive sector, carbon fiber composites enhance vehicle performance by reducing weight and improving acceleration, braking, and safety. High-end sports cars, including Formula 1 race cars, use carbon fiber-reinforced polymer composites for the chassis and body, achieving weight reductions of 40% to 60% compared to steel structures while maintaining strength and stiffness.

In wind power, carbon fiber is used in the main beams of turbine blades, which can exceed 70 meters in length. Using large-tow carbon fiber reduces blade weight and increases stiffness, significantly enhancing the efficiency and stability of wind turbines.

Sports Equipment

Carbon fiber is also prevalent in high-performance sports equipment, aiding athletes in achieving new records. It is used in tennis rackets, bicycles, golf clubs, skis, and kayaks, leveraging its lightweight properties to reduce the burden on athletes. For example, carbon fiber tennis rackets can increase the maximum ball speed by 20%, reaching 250 km/h.

Production Challenges and Future Prospects

The production of high-performance carbon fiber is complex, involving over a hundred detailed processes across polymer chemistry, material science, and industrial automation. Each process step, with thousands of parameters, must be meticulously controlled to achieve the desired properties. The manufacturing difficulty and high cost make carbon fiber products expensive, with aerospace-grade carbon fiber priced significantly higher than steel or aluminum.

However, the superior performance of carbon fiber makes it indispensable for national defense and economic development. As technology improves and costs decrease, carbon fiber's applications will expand further, especially in automotive and sports industries.

In conclusion, high-performance carbon fiber is set to revolutionize various sectors with its unparalleled properties. With ongoing advancements, carbon fiber materials will continue to support the growth of modern manufacturing and technology, offering immense potential for the future.