Leitfaehiges Formteil, Verfahren zu seiner Herstellung und Verwendung desselben

EP 1524253 A UPAB: 20050815 NOVELTY - In the production of shaped articles (A) at least partially of elemental carbon, by forming a polymeric shaped article from thermosetting resin(s) and/or thermoplastic polymer(s) containing reinforcing fibers (I) and optionally additives, pyrolyzing to carbonize at least part of the polymer matrix and cooling, (I) are natural fibers and are pyrolyzed together with the polymer matrix. DETAILED DESCRIPTION - An INDEPENDENT CLAIM is included for the articles (A) obtained by the process, containing the pyrolyzed (I). USE - The use of (A) is claimed: (1) as electrodes or bipolar plates for batteries, accumulators or fuel cells; (2) for screening against electromagnetic waves; (3) as filter elements, especially for corrosive and/or hot liquids; or (4) as highly mechanically and/or thermally stressed components, specifically heat shields for aircraft or spacecraft, brake disks for automobiles or machine or turbine elements for power stations or reactors. ADVANTAGE - A simple, inexpensive procedure is provided for providing high quality (specifically electrically conductive) articles (A) of almost any shape. In particular (A) have at least comparable electrical conductivity with highly filled polymeric articles containing 60 w.t % carbon black or graphite, and also show high mechanical strength, wear and abrasion resistance, inertness to corrosive materials and resistance to high temperatures. The natural fibers (I) are markedly less expensive than synthetic reinforcing fibers (e.g. carbon, metal or ceramic fibers); are considerably lighter than metal or ceramic fibers; are readily incorporated in polymers and non-abrasive to processing machinery (being relatively flexible and soft); and reduce stresses and surface defects in (A) (being shrinkable)