CARBON FIBRE
Carbon fiber is a high modulus synthetic fiber made from an acrylic containing carbon, hydrogen and nitrogen atoms that is heated in three successive stages to eliminate all but the carbon atoms. It is naturally black in color and is essentially unaffected by UV exposure. First used successfully in the America’s Cup, carbon fiber laminates provide exceptionally low stretch for their weight. Recent manufacturing advances have led to improved fiber flexibility, which translates to longer sail life in exchange for lower modulus numbers. The balance between low stretch and high flexibility means that, depending on the production method, carbon fiber sailcloth can be extremely brittle and damage intolerant, or can be extremely durable and slightly stretchier than the comparable aramid sail. Recently developed carbon sailcloth styles have paired high modulus carbon fiber with more durable aramid, Spectra, and/or Vectran fibers to achieve durability without sacrificing low stretch.
