Kohlenstofffaserverstärkter

Kohlenstofffaserverstärkter Kunststoff, often abbreviated as CFK or carbon fiber reinforced polymer in English, is a composite material that consists of carbon fibers embedded in a polymer matrix. The carbon fibers provide exceptional strength and stiffness, while the polymer matrix binds the fibers together and protects them from environmental damage. This combination results in a material that is significantly stronger and lighter than many traditional materials like steel or aluminum.

The production of CFK typically involves impregnating carbon fibers with a liquid resin, such as epoxy, polyester, or vinylester. This resin-impregnated material is then laid up in a mold and cured under heat and pressure, causing the resin to solidify and form a rigid structure. The orientation and arrangement of the carbon fibers can be precisely controlled during the manufacturing process to tailor the material's properties for specific applications.

Due to its high strength-to-weight ratio, CFK is widely used in industries where weight reduction and high performance are critical. This includes aerospace, where it is used in aircraft components like wings and fuselage sections; automotive, for car bodies and structural parts to improve fuel efficiency and performance; and sports equipment, such as bicycle frames, tennis rackets, and golf clubs. It is also found in medical devices and civil engineering applications. While CFK offers many advantages, its higher cost compared to conventional materials can be a limiting factor in some applications.