High Resolution Electron Microscopy of Graphitizable Carbon Fiber Prepared by Benzene Decomposition

Carbon fiber prepared by thermal decomposition of benzene at 1100°C was stepwise heat-treated in a temperature range up to 2800°C, and was studied by high resolution electron microscopy. In the range of heat treatment temperature below 1960°C, carbon layers are stacked in the turbostratic fashion, though their size indicates some growth. Above 1960°C, dewrinkling of the carbon layers takes place, and finally at 2800°C the fiber is formed by concentric polyhedral crystals of graphite. The mechanical and electrical properties of the graphitic fiber are accounted for on this basis.