| abstract |
Various embodiments of the present invention provide improved carbon fibers and films, and methods of making such carbon fibers and films. The carbon fibers and films disclosed herein are generally formed from acrylonitrile containing polymers. Carbon fibers and / or films may also be formed from composites comprising acrylonitrile containing polymers, carbon nanotubes, graphite sheets, or both. The fibers and films described herein vary depending upon the intended use for the fiber or film, but can be tailored to exhibit one or more of high strength, high modulus of elasticity, high electrical conductivity, high thermal conductivity, or optical transparency. |