Net-Shape Advanced Polymer, Ceramic, and Carbon Composites Produced from Wood

Some results are descibed of an innovative approach for producing net shape polymer, ceramic and carbon composites using wood and other lignocellulose precursors. Wood monoliths have been carbonized without producing cracks as typically found in charcoal materials. These porous carbon monoliths have been readily shaped using standard tools. Conversion to final material has been accomplished without any change in dimensions from the carbon stage, The net-shape materials produced include carbon/epoxy and carbon/carbon composites, silicon carbide, silicon carbide/silicon composites, titanium carbide, and aluminum nitride. Carbonized poplar has been found to be 30% stronger and a carbon/epoxy derived from poplar 250% stronger than the original poplar wood.