Mitsubishi Chemical launches high-performance carbon fiber prepreg series

Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation has expanded its Xlink Tech carbon fiber prepreg portfolio with the introduction of two new series aimed at addressing the challenge of achieving both stiffness and durability in carbon fiber-reinforced plastics (CFRP). The new series, Xlink Tech-HT (#375) and Xlink Tech-HS (#372), are now available for sample work.

Carbon fiber prepreg, a key material in CFRP production, consists of resin-impregnated carbon fibers and is utilized in various sectors including sports, leisure, mobility, and industry. While CFRP is known for its lightweight and high-strength properties, it has historically struggled with impact resistance, particularly when using high-modulus carbon fiber.

The primary issue with CFRP impact resistance lies not in the carbon fibers themselves but in the resin or at the fiber-resin interface. This has made it difficult to achieve both high stiffness and durability, especially in applications involving high-modulus carbon fibers, which are known for their stiffness but are prone to impact damage.

Mitsubishi Chemical has employed its proprietary resin design technology to enhance the impact resistance and damage tolerance of CFRP using high-modulus carbon fibers. This advancement is expected to offer greater design flexibility and improved performance across various applications.

Stephen Moore, a long-time industry expert, has been involved with PlasticsToday and its predecessor publications since 1992, focusing on the automotive and mobility sectors. He is also a pioneer in applying artificial intelligence and market modeling to the plastics industry through his company, MLT Analytics. Moore is actively engaged in supporting science education and has established a scholarship at the University of Auckland to promote studies in Green Chemistry.