Thermal conductivity of PTFE composites filled with graphite particles and carbon fibers

• A numerical model is introduced for predicting thermal conductivity of composites.
• 250-mesh graphite has better modification effect than other size particles.
• A random and even distribution of graphite have the similar effect.
• The optimum matching is 17.76 and 10% of graphite and carbon fibers, respectively.

A finite element numerical model is proposed in this paper to predict the effective thermal conductivity of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) composites based on the Fourier’s law of heat conduction. The reliability of the numerical model is verified using the comprehensive experimental results and theoretical models presented by predecessors. A systematic study is conducted through numerical simulation to examine the impact of graphite particle size, volume fraction, and distribution style on the thermal conductivity of PTFE composites. A prediction model of the thermal conductivity of carbon fibers reinforced PTFE composites is introduced. The results of the prediction model agree well with experimental data. A trade off between the volume fractions of graphite particles and carbon fibers is conducted. And the optimum volume fraction matching is 17.76 and 10% for graphite particles and carbon fibers, respectively.

Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slide