Abstract

This chapter presents practical industrial applications of low-cost carbon fibre. It also considers the performance and cost models which underpin the work. The three alternative lightweighting pathways considered for body and chassis components include: lightweight metals; carbon fibre reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites; and multi-materials. The chapter considers a number of scenarios relating to materials migration in automotive applications. A section deals with the theory behind the prediction of weight savings. The chapter provides an analysis that considers what weight savings are achievable as a function of the relative properties of the materials concerned. It also provides a brief listing of lower cost precursor routes that are being evaluated at ORNL and by other private companies to develop structural carbon fibres. Several research and development efforts are currently being conducted to reduce the cost of carbon fibre and pathways exist to be able to produce carbon fibre in the US$5–7/lb range.