From automotive to construction, various industries require carbon fiber. Its versatility and excellent properties make it essential for manufacturing components and structures. Therefore, there is a growing demand for carbon fiber market around the world.
GMI Research, a reputable market research firm, estimated that the carbon fiber market size achieved USD 5.2 billion in 2022 and would get USD 12.1 billion in 2030. This outstanding growth is due to the growing automotive industry and the shifting trends towards physical activities and other kinds of sports.
What is Good About It?
Because of its many benefits, the carbon fiber market has seen an upward trajectory.
- High stiffness and tensile strength
Its strength originates from its microscopic reinforcing fibers. They are strong under tension but do not have much stiffness or compressive strength on their own. When embedded in epoxy resin (a durable and light plastic), the fibers gain stiffness along the axis and enhance their strength in compression and tension. This results in “non-isotropic” strength, where the material’s strength differs based on the direction and alignment of the fibers. Unlike isotropic materials such as steel, which exhibit uniform properties in all directions, carbon fiber parts can achieve strength comparable to top-quality steel while being significantly lighter. This ability to tailor strength to specific load conditions makes it an excellent alternative to metals like aluminum and steel.
- Lightweight
Carbon fiber is remarkable lightweight. A carbon fiber with plastic weighs only slightly more than standard plastic. It can be about 90% lighter than steel. A car hood weighing seventy pounds can be replaced with a carbon fiber version with just seven pounds.
Carbon fiber surpasses aluminum in terms of weight. The upcoming sports car Polestar One from Volvo benefits from carbon fiber to reduce its weight by more than 500 pounds. It also boosts stiffness in crucial sections. Similarly, CF’s sunglasses with carbon fiber are so light that they weigh only 20 grams which is about the same as six pennies.
- Versatile in various applications
Carbon fiber is not just limited to high-end cars. It is making an impact in various fields. Hikers value its lightweight nature in gear like backpacks or tents. In aviation, drones and helicopters see significant enhancements in the power-to-weight ratios with carbon fiber.
Carbon fiber’s reach extends to various surprising items. That includes luxury RVs, emergency medical gear, musical instruments, and bicycles. CF has indeed produced products for every fields.
If you ever wished your couch was lighter when trying to move it, you are in good company. Carbon fiber furniture is emerging to help relieve that burden on your back. Despite its reputation for being a little bit itchy, it is even being used in apparel with companies now making t-shirts out of it.
- Does not rust
Unlike many materials that suffer from corrosion or oxidation when exposed to water and air, carbon fiber remains unaffected. Its carbon and epoxy resin components are very stable and resistant, even underwater. This makes it a perfect substitute for steel in moisture-rich or submerged conditions. It saves us on expensive anti-corrosion measures and reduces the need for regular repainting.
- X-ray transmissive
Despite its superior strength in comparison to steel, carbon fiber is entirely transparent for x-rays. This exceptional characteristic makes it invaluable in medical fields. It combines the robustness of metal and the x-ray transparency typically found in plastics.
Picture a scenario where patients do not need to be transported to another room for x-rays. They can be imaged in real-time while on the operating table. Carbon fiber is enabling it and other innovative applications. It offers doctors unprecedented convenience and capabilities.
- Will not change shape under hot weather
The application of high-temperature epoxy enables carbon fiber to endure extreme cold and heat. It is with negligible warping or size changes due to its minimum thermal expansion. Many musicians have always wished for guitars and violins that maintain their tune. Now, carbon fiber is making this possible by producing instruments that do not warp or expand in varying weather conditions.
Modern instruments are capable of withstanding harsh weather, rough use, and frequent travel. It remains lightweight and durable for many years. Despite this, applying a clear coat to carbon fiber is wise to protect against UV damage. Properly coated carbon fiber can endure prolonged sun exposure.
- Chemicals resistance
Rigid carbon fiber is usually paired with a polymer matrix. It is most often using an epoxy resin approach. The epoxy forms through a chemical reaction between a hardener and a resin.
- Visual aesthetics
The most well-known attribute of the carbon fiber market is its iconic look. Its shark-tooth patterns and light reflection make it instantly recognizable. Beyond their stunning appearance, the fibers serve as both the strength and structure of the part. It is similar to an insect’s exoskeleton. It is also now possible to weave carbon fiber into different patterns or blend it with various materials to add color.
