Examination of thermal properties of carbon-carbon and graphatized carbon-carbon composites

Abstract

Thermal characterization is essential to the proper assignment of composites to specific applications. Specific heat, thermal diffusivity, and thermal conductivity are critical in the engineering design process and in the analysis of aerospace vehicles, space systems, power generation, transportation systems, and energy storage devices including fuel cells. This paper examines the thermal properties through the thickness of Carbon-Carbon and the impact of Graphitization is explored. Following ASTM standards, the Flash Method and Differential Scanning Calorimetry measured thermal diffusivity and specific heat respectively. These measurements and density data allowed for the computation of thermal conductivity.