The Oak Ridge Carbon Fiber Composites Consortium was established in 2011 to accelerate the development and deployment of new, lower cost carbon fiber composite materials. The Consortium draws on the broad experience that the Oak Ridge National Laboratory has in research, development, demonstration and deployment of fiber-reinforced composite materials, and leverages the expertise of more than 45 member companies across the entire carbon fiber value chain. It also supports the U.S. Department of Energy’s investment in the new $35 million Carbon Fiber Technology Facility by providing industry perspective on the critically important transition of research and development to commercial application.
The market for carbon fiber is projected to grow significantly over the next decade, especially in key markets such as automotive, wind energy, infrastructure, and industrial applications. Success in producing new, lower cost fibers and more efficient compositing techniques will enable the market to grow even faster.
The Consortium serves as a platform for industry to develop a pre-competitive technology roadmap, and to allow its members to build teaming relationships to capitalize on future business opportunities. Members of the consortium have opportunities to participate in semi-annual membership events in Oak Ridge, and to receive briefings on progress being made in ORNL’s research and demonstration efforts. They also are capitalizing on opportunities to develop relationships with other members along the carbon fiber composites value chain, and to explore opportunities for partnering and collaboration.
The market for carbon fiber is projected to grow significantly over the next decade, especially in key markets such as automotive, wind energy, infrastructure, and industrial applications. Success in producing new, lower cost fibers and more efficient compositing techniques will enable the market to grow even faster, and for all Consortium members to benefit.