Carbon Fiber Mat (also called Carbon Veil or Chopped Strand Mat) is a non-woven fabric made from randomly distributed, short carbon fiber strands bonded together with a lightweight, thermoplastic, or chemical binder. Unlike woven fabrics, it forms an isotropic layer with uniform strength in all directions.

Key Characteristics & Advantages
Lightweight & Thin – Ranging from 4 g/m2 to 60 g/m2, it adds minimal weight.
Excellent Resin Absorption – Creates a resin-rich layer for smooth, low-porosity surfaces.
Corrosion & Chemical Resistance – Ideal for lining tanks, pipes, and chemically exposed structures.
Electrical Conductivity – Provides EMI shielding and electrostatic dissipation.
Easy Handling & Conformability – Conforms easily to complex molds and curved surfaces.
Cost-Effective – More affordable than woven fabrics, suitable for large-area coverage.

Common Types & Grades
Standard Carbon Veil – General-purpose surface tissue for cosmetic finish and corrosion barrier.
Electrically Conductive Veil – Enhanced conductivity for EMI/RFI shielding applications.
Hybrid Mat – Blended with glass or aramid fibers for tailored thermal/mechanical properties.
Binder-Free Mat – For high-temperature or vacuum infusion processes where binder interference is a concern.

Typical Applications

Corrosion-Resistant Lining

Chemical storage tanks, pipelines, scrubbers in chemical processing, pulp/paper, and marine industries.
EMI Shielding & Conductive Layers

Electronics enclosures, aerospace avionics, communication housings.
Composite Surface Finish

Provides a smooth, pinhole-free "Class A" surface in automotive body panels, boat hulls, and wind turbine blades.
Battery & Fuel Cell Components

Gas diffusion layers (GDLs), electrode substrates in PEM fuel cells and advanced batteries.
Thermal Insulation & Gasketing

High-temperature gaskets, furnace insulation, fire barriers.