Practice free →
HomeGATE MEMechanical Engineeringfibers › Carbon fiber is produced by HEAT TREATMENT (pyro…

Carbon fiber is produced by HEAT TREATMENT (pyrolysis) of which precursor?

A{'text': 'Cellulose', 'label': 'C'}
B{'text': 'Polyester', 'label': 'D'}
C{'text': 'POLYACRYLONITRILE (PAN) — the dominant precursor; pitch is an alternative for ultra-high-modulus fibers', 'label': 'B'}
D{'text': 'Polyethylene', 'label': 'A'}
Answer & Solution
Correct answer: C. {'text': 'POLYACRYLONITRILE (PAN) — the dominant precursor; pitch is an alternative for ultra-high-modulus fibers', 'label': 'B'}
Two main precursors: PAN (polyacrylonitrile, ~90% of market) and pitch (petroleum-derived). PAN gives high strength/balanced properties; pitch enables ultra-high modulus (>500 GPa) but lower strength. Pyrolysis 1000-3000°C in inert atmosphere drives off non-carbon atoms.
Solve this in the app — GATE ME practice & 24k+ MCQs →
Related questions