Process for Producing a Material Composite, Material Composite and Use of the Material Composite as a Heat Conductor and Heat Exchanger

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This patent describes a process for producing a material composite using carbon nanostructures (such as carbon nanotubes) anchored in a metal matrix (preferably copper). The process includes manufacturing the composite, shaping and arranging it in segments, filling gaps in a mold with a filler material, and sintering the assembly. The final composite is designed so that the carbon nanostructures protrude from at least one surface, enhancing thermal contact. The material is especially suited as a heat conductor or heat exchanger in demanding applications.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Thermal interface materials (TIMs) for efficient heat transfer between electronic components and heat sinks
• Heat exchangers in vacuum or space applications, such as satellites, where convective cooling is not possible
• Advanced cooling solutions for high-performance computing hardware (CPUs, GPUs)
• Thermal management in power electronics or automotive systems
• Passive cooling devices for sensitive sensors or instrumentation
• Modular and reusable thermal contacts in laboratory or industrial setups

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Significantly enhanced thermal conductivity due to the presence and orientation of carbon nanostructures
• Reusable and detachable thermal interface, unlike conventional thermal pastes and gels
• Improved actual contact area between surfaces, resulting in better heat transfer efficiency
• Ability to tailor and adapt the composite's shape and performance to specific application requirements
• Compatible with high-vacuum and extreme environments where other solutions are unsuitable
• Potential for higher durability and longevity compared to standard TIMs
• Customizable internal structure (via filler and layering) for optimized performance

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The invention relates to a process for producing a material composite (200) comprising the steps: producing (S100) a composite material (20) that extends along an axis of elongation (z), composed of carbon nanostructures anchored in a matrix of a first metal (24), preferably carbon nanostructures (22) wherein the carbon nanostructures (22) extend along the axis of elongation (z) of the composite material (20); subdividing (S200) the composite material (20) into segments (30) of the composite material (20); arranging (S400) the segments (30) in a plane of a die (100); filling (S500) cavities in the die (120) with a filler material (130); sintering (S600) in the die (100) to form a material composite (200), and exposing the carbon nanostructures (22) of the composite material (20) on at least one surface of the composite material (200), so that the carbon nanostructures (22) project from this surface. Also proposed are a material composite and the use thereof as a heat conductor and/or heat exchanger.