4M Carbon Fiber launches 50-ton plasma oxidation qualification line

Carbon fiber manufacturer 4M Carbon Fiber (Knoxville, Tenn., U.S.) announces the commencement of its 50-ton/year plasma oxidation qualification line project. This strategic initiative marks a critical step in demonstrating 4M’s patented oxidation technology, which the company says significantly improves efficiencies, reduces costs and enhances material properties.

The $4.5 million project, which has already secured initial funding, will serve as a platform to showcase the scalability of 4M’s plasma oxidation process. With this line, 4M will be able to produce material for large-scale qualification projects, a key factor in securing licensing agreements and equipment sales. The technology is designed to triple throughput, cut oxidation energy consumption by 75%, and deliver up to 50% savings in capital costs and 30% in operating expenses compared to current industry standards.

“This project represents a significant milestone in our journey to transform the carbon fiber industry,” says Dr. Truman Bonds, CTO of 4M Carbon Fiber. “It is an essential step in getting our technology to a commercial scale, and also opens the door for expanded partnerships with key players across various sectors. Our goal is to make carbon fiber more accessible and cost-effective, and this line will allow us to demonstrate the full potential of our process to prospective customers and partners.”

The qualification line will also enable 4M to engage more closely with companies that are already showing strong interest in adopting the technology. Multiple major carbon fiber manufacturers and new market entrants have expressed readiness to proceed with qualification projects and licensing agreements once the technology is proven at this scale. Furthermore, the line will support ongoing development projects with domestic oil companies and other industry partners, who are looking to establish their own carbon fiber production capabilities using 4M’s patented process.

“This investment in our qualification line is about more than just expanding production capacity; it’s about setting a new standard for the carbon fiber industry,” adds Bonds.