Diamond-Coated Fibers for Polymers Matrix Composites

The feasibility of diamond-coated fibers for polymer matrix composites will be explored. The poor thermal conductivity of polymers restricts the use of these materials as structural components under thermal loading. This problem will be addressed in collaboration with General Dynamics by incorporating CVD diamond-coated fiber mats in polymer matrix composites. The composite thermal properties will be measured to assess the benefits of a high thermal conductivity diamond coating for this application. The mechanical properties of diamond-coated monofilaments will also be determined.