Thermoplastic-compatible carbon fiber production commences; focus on auto sector

At the end of June, SGL Group (Wiesbaden, Germany) started production of thermoplastic-compatible polyacrylonitrile-based carbon fibers at its Muir of Ord site in Scotland. The new production start-up will initially service orders from the automotive industry.

New carbon fiber grade especially suited to use in thermoplastic composites.

"The next generation of carbon fiber-based products is currently emerging in the thermoplastics sector. Our new heavy tow carbon fiber Sigrafil C 50k has already been exhibited with great success at this year's JEC Composites Show in Paris and, after the show, we received our first orders," reported Peter Weber, Vice President Sales & Marketing, SGL Group.

In the new product, a new surface coating (sizing) has been developed to optimally bond the carbon fiber to the thermoplastic matrix. The inherent properties of carbon fiber, such as high strength and stiffness, are thereby fully transmitted to thermoplastic molded components. Furthermore, other sizing systems, such as for high-temperature applications, are already at the development stage at SGL Group.