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High performance sustainable carbon fibres from Australian spinifex grass (2015–2018)

Abstract:
Spinifex grasses cover ~30% of our Australian continent, in the driest regions. We have found that, presumably because of this harsh environment, they are uniquely easy to break down into ultra-long, thin cellulose nanofibrils. Through the use of novel catalysts and advanced processing techniques, this project will take advantage of this trait to deliver the cost-effective production of high strength, sustainable carbon fibres from nanocellulose. The use of the world's first university based research facility capable of producing high quality carbon fibre (CarbonNexus) will ensure the product is industrially relevant, with real potential to capture a share of the $14B carbon-fibre-composite market.
Grant type:
ARC Discovery Projects
Researchers:

  • Professor Darren Martin

    Professor
    School of Chemical Engineering
    Faculty of Engineering, Architecture and Information Technology
    Affiliate of Australian Research Co
    ARC Centre of Excellence-Green Electrochemical Transformation of Carbon Dioxide
    Faculty of Engineering, Architecture and Information Technology

  • Dr Pratheep Kumar Annamalai

    Adjunct Senior Fellow
    School of Agriculture and Food Sustainability
    Faculty of Science
    Adjunct Senior Fellow
    School of Agriculture and Food Sustainability
    Faculty of Science

  • Professor Bronwyn Laycock

    Professor
    School of Chemical Engineering
    Faculty of Engineering, Architecture and Information Technology
    Professor
    School of Chemical Engineering
    Faculty of Engineering, Architecture and Information Technology
Funded by:
Australian Research Council