Domestic, Low-Cost Pitch Carbon Fiber for High Temperature Applications - P4945

The innovation proposed under this program is development of a low-cost, high-performance PCF specifically designed for Thermal Protection System (TPS) for high temperature structure applications. The fiber will use a patented domestically sourced petroleum pitch-based precursor, developed that will allow for high producibility, capacity, affordability, and reduction in US-based supply chain risk. The PCF will be specifically formulated with superior thermal and mechanical properties for use in high heat-resistant ceramic matrix composites (CMC) and high-thermal-conductive Carbon/Carbon (C/C) composites. There are currently only a limited number of commercial companies producing PCF in the world (less than five). Hence, demonstration of this technology will address current gaps in domestic PCFs, both supply and performance.