Carbon Fibre Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) Composites
topic
CFRP properties at 60% fibre volume: tensile strength 1500-2500 MPa, modulus 120-180 GPa (standard), 200-400 GPa (high modulus), density 1.50-1.60 g/cm³, specific strength 940-1560 MPa/(g/cm³) vs. steel 130 MPa/(g/cm³), fatigue resistance superior to metals. Matrix systems: epoxy (aerospace, sporting goods), BMI/polyimide (high temperature >200°C), thermoplastics (PA6, PEEK, PP for automotive). Manufacturing: prepreg autoclave, resin infusion, filament winding, compression molding.
Role
CFRP enables unprecedented weight reduction (50-70% vs. steel, 20-30% vs. aluminum) while maintaining or exceeding mechanical performance, revolutionizing aerospace (Boeing 787: 50% composites by weight, Airbus A350: 53%) and expanding to automotive (BMW i3, supercars).