The effect of laser irradiation on the microstructure and properties of PAN-based carbon fiber during graphitization
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Carbon fibers (CF) with highly ordered graphitic structure are in demand for various applications. This study introduces fiber laser graphitization that offers a novel approach to enhance the properties of carbon fibers by utilizing precise laser irradiation to induce graphitization of PAN-based carbon fibers. The structural and mechanical properties changes were assessed through different detection and characterization techniques. Upon graphitization at different laser power, Raman spectra revealed graphitic order features and significantly increased degree of graphitization. The structural analysis showed an increase in both the out-of-plane (Lc) and in-plane (La) crystallinity, along with the preferred orientation of crystallites in the axial fiber directions. The surface morphology revealed a rough structure attributed to the fast energy supply from laser power. The HRTEM lattice-fringe showed the growth graphene layers and rearrangement graphite lamellar. The increase in tensile modulus was attributed to changes in crystalline size that outlines the rearrangement, and the tensile strength decreased due to both residual stresses and structural defects that were introduced during processing. This research highlights fiber laser as a method to develop carbon fibers with a microstructure that is ultimately beneficial to achieve enhanced mechanical properties while also achieving high graphitization degree.
Source: Diamond and Related Materials
Authors: Forthan Umba Mikombe, Yunxia Ye, Zhao Yuan, Yiming Han, Liping Shi, Xudong Ren
Institutions: Jiangsu University, Harbin Institute of Technology
Language: English
Subfield: Mechanical Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $2,690
Award: G1107702664
OpenAlex ID: W7083300892