The proposed Phase I Small Business Technology Transition (STTR) program will develop and demonstrate a thermally conductive structural two-dimensional (2D) graphite fiber reinforced hybrid matrix composite material with a through-thickness thermal conductivity of at least 20 W/m∙K. This novel structural prepreg material will be developed through engineering of an optimal fiber/matrix interphase conducive to phonon transport, in combination with P2SIs newly developed high thermal conductivity hybrid matrix under development for continuous pitch fiber composites. The new engineered interphase, formed in a continuous production process, will be directly applicable to a broad range of continuous pitch fibers, including those of novel surface morphologies, such as P2SIs carbon nanotube fused pitch fibers and pitch fibers containing graphene nanofin morphologies.
Benefit: Applications proposed by this STTR program that will benefit most readily from this new technology are space applications, where the multi-functional properties of light weight, high stiffness, high strength, and exceptional thermal performance are all design enabling properties. In addition, high transverse thermal conductivity is extremely important. Light weight aircraft structure will also be a commercial application.
Keywords: Thermal Conductivity Materials, Pitch Fibers, Surface Treatment, Thermal Protection Systems, Thermal Spreader
