Carbon-carbon composites

Carbon-carbon composites are materials based on the carbon matrix and carbon fillers. Commonly used as a carbon matrix are pyrolytic carbon, coke residues of thermosetting resins or petroleum pitch. Used as carbon reinforcing element are: discrete fibers, continuous threads or strands, felts, ribbons, fabrics with a flat and three-dimensional netting, volumetric frame structures. Carbon-carbon composites have low density (1.3–2.1 g/cm³)*; high heat capacity, resistance to thermal shock, erosion and irradiation; low friction coefficients and linear expansion; high corrosion resistance; wide range of electrical properties (from conductors to semiconductors); high strength and rigidity. Such a wide range of properties of carbon-carbon composites makes it possible to use them in radio-space and aviation engineering: in brake discs, rocket engine nozzles, protective linings of wings, high pressure pipes, for plain bearings, seals, etc. High strength (up to 5.5 GPa**) and resistance to high temperatures, as well as resistance to vibrational loads and a low specific gravity of carbon nanotubes allow them to be used in composite carbon-carbon materials. Composite carbon-carbon materials with nanotubes can be widely used in radio-space and aviation engineering. They will improve the functional characteristics of aircraft, will reduce the weight of the final product and thereby reduce operating costs and fuel consumption.