Thermal conductive material

Abstract

A three-dimensional arrangement of carbon fibers made from mesophase pitch are used to reinforce polymer resins to form a composite material. The composite material exhibits high thermal conductivity values on all axes through the composite.

What is claimed is: 
     
       1. A thermally conductive composite material comprising a resin reinforced with a three-dimensional arrangement of discontinuous mesophase pitch based carbon fibers said material having a thermal conductivity above about 10(BTU) (in)/(ft 2 ) (hr) (°F.) as measured on the axis of lowest thermal conductivity through the material. 
     
     
       2. The thermally conductive material as defined in claim 1 wherein said resin is polyethylene terephthalate polymer. 
     
     
       3. The thermally conductive material of claim 1 wherein said resin is fluorocarbon polymer. 
     
     
       4. A component made from the material of claim 1.