Precision Materials for a Lighter Future: Advanced Carbon Fibers from Hydrocarbon Feedstocks
WRI is at the forefront of material innovation, transforming hydrocarbon feedstocks into high-performance carbon fibers with extraordinary mechanical properties. Our advanced synthetic and engineering processes are creating materials that enable lighter, stronger, and more efficient solutions across various sectors.
The image features specialized equipment that supports these developments. Here, we convert meticulously produced mesophase pitch (from sources like coal tar and aromatic petroleum refinery streams) into fibers with diameters less than 20 microns (human hair averages 75 microns) using a single-shot melt spinner technology, capable of handling pitch-based feedstocks with softening points up to about 330 °C.
The subsequent stabilization and carbonization treatments result in carbon fibers with exceptional tensile strength, modulus, and percent elongation to failure, all of which are quantified through our in-house testing capabilities.
Strategic diversification by hydrocarbon producing companies—into non-fuel material markets—underscores the critical role of material science in the ongoing energy transition. By creating these advanced carbon fibers, we're contributing to a future where material innovation supports sustainability and performance.
We're eager to connect with fellow innovators and industry leaders to help you achieve diversification and added value to your hydrocarbon feedstocks. What high-performance material challenges can these advanced carbon fibers help solve? Share your insight at wriadm@uwyo.edu.
