Modeling and Optimization of Carbon Fiber Processing: A RSM-FCCC Experimental Design Approach

In this study, low price carbon fibers have been produced by using cheap commercial polyacrylonitrile fibers through stabilization and carbonization in different conditions. To do this, a well-known design of experiments method, called the face-centered central composite, is implemented for the experimental plan, using two main process variables. The variables, including carbonization time and temperature, were investigated. Tensile strength and elastic modulus values of products samples were measured through standard procedures. Response surface method is then applied to interpret mechanical properties of carbon fibers as given experimentally functions of process variables. Optimization process revealed that optimum tensile strength and modulus elasticity of 1970 MPa and 226 GPa, respectively whilst precursor cost was reduced extensively.