Structure Evolution in Polyethylene-Derived Carbon Fiber Using a Combined Electron Beam-Stabilization-Sulphurization Approach

Structure evolution during the conversion of melt spun, electron beam‐crosslinked polyethylene fibers into carbon fibers using a combined sulphurization/pyrolysis/carbonization process is reported. Solid‐state nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis–mass spectrometry, infrared spectroscopy, energy dispersive X‐ray scattering, scanning electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction data are presented and provide a comprehensive picture of the structural changes during carbonization.