This book presents detailed information on the production and properties
of carbon fibers derived from lignin precursors. Focusing on future
directions in the carbon fiber industry, it also introduces a novel
process for obtaining high-purity lignin, a key aspect in the
manufacture of high-quality carbon fiber. Carbon fiber is currently the
most preferred lightweight manufacturing material and is rapidly
becoming the material of choice for manufacturers around the world.
Although more than 80% of commercial carbon fiber is estimated to use
PAN (polyacrylonitrile) as a precursor, carbon fiber manufactured from
PAN is expensive and therefore its application is limited to
high-performance structural materials. Lignin is the second most
abundant biopolymer in nature after cellulose and offers a carbon-rich,
renewable resource. As a byproduct of the pulp and paper industry and
the production of cellulosic ethanol, lignin is also available at low
cost, making it an economically attractive alternative to PAN for the
production of carbon fibers, as highlighted in this book. The
information presented will be of interest to all those involved in the
investigation of carbon fiber materials, carbon fiber manufacturers and
carbon fiber users.