Which characteristics are generally associated with carbon/graphite fiber composites?

The characteristics of carbon/graphite fiber composites that highlight their properties include stiffness, high compressive strength, and the potential to have corrosive effects when in contact with aluminum.

Carbon/graphite fibers are known for their excellent stiffness-to-weight ratio, making them ideal for applications that require strong, lightweight materials. This stiffness allows structures made from these composites to maintain their shape and resist deformation under load. The high compressive strength is another critical factor; it means that these materials can withstand significant forces without failing, which is crucial in aerospace and automotive applications.

Moreover, when discussing corrosive effects in contact with aluminum, it is important to note that certain environments can lead to galvanic corrosion when different metals are in contact, especially if moisture is present. In this case, the carbon fibers can contribute to such interactions, leading to potential integrity issues in aluminum structures paired with carbon composites.

The other choices do not accurately reflect the primary characteristics of carbon/graphite fiber composites. While flexibility and electrical conductivity exist in certain contexts, they are not defining traits of these materials. Similarly, lightweight and waterproof properties are not exclusive or specific to carbon/graphite composites. Lastly, low thermal conductivity and high flexibility do not align with the traditional understanding of how carbon