Project Title:

Coated Graphites Fibers for Highly Conductive Composites

04.03-8080
901936
Coated Graphites Fibers for Highly Conductive Composites

Abstract:

Copper/graphite composites offer a unique combination of high thermal conductivity
and high temperature strength and modulus. They are particularly useful for thermal
management for space power generation. However, because molten copper does not wet
graphite, hot pressed copper/graphite composites are not thermally stable, developing
pores and swelling when exposed to high temperature environments. The purpose of
this project is to develop a reliable and reproducible coating process for graphite
fibers which would allow the fibers to be wet by molten copper. Not only will it
improve the thermal stability of the composite, but it will be easier to produce
complex forms and structures by means of the air stable coating. The coating is compatible
with other metals, such as aluminum, allowing the same coating to be used to produce
aluminum/graphite composites.
The high conductivity of the composite may be useful as a heat sink for high power
integrated circuits. Other composites which would be developed in future research
such as aluminum/graphite would be useful for aerospace structures.
composite, fiber coating, copper, graphite, thermal management