Carbon fiber, with a density only 1/5 of steel, possesses five times the strength of steel. As it exhibits electromagnetic resistance, fatigue resistance, corrosion resistance, and excellent mechanical performance, carbon fiber has found application in the aerospace and sporting goods industries as early as the 1980s. Leveraging its expertise in carbon fiber technology, ITRI has supported the advancement of these sectors and has contributed to the enhancement of quality of carbon-fiber products such as golf clubs and tennis rackets.

In 1985, ITRI partnered with Giant Manufacturing to develop carbon fiber bike frames. Within a year, the first batch of carbon fiber bike models was created and proven to be 10 times more durable than imported carbon fiber bike frames. The success of this new product was evident when the Giant-sponsored bike team emerged victorious in the 2004 Le Tour de France, leading to a substantial increase in sales of Giant’s carbon fiber bicycles. This accomplishment also elevated Giant’s reputation from an original design manufacturer (OEM) to an international brand. Consequently, Giant’s bikes gained entry into the global high-end bicycle market, serving as a prime example of how material innovations accelerate industry upgrades.

ITRI’s carbon fiber technologies were also utilized to develop a composite material patch for reinforcing rebar and concrete structures. These patches proved valuable in post-earthquake reconstruction projects in Taiwan after a major earthquake struck in 1999. Later on, ITRI collaborated with US Spirit Airlines in the aerospace sector, introducing this technology to create next-generation carbon fibers for the aerospace industry. The resulting high-modulus carbon-fiber precursor material met the international standard modulus of carbon fiber, enabling Taiwan’s composite material industries to enter the high-tech aerospace market. Moreover, in response to environmental trends, ITRI developed a thermoplastic carbon fiber composite material that is 100% recyclable. By transferring this technology to manufacturers for the production of durable and lightweight suitcases, Taiwan unlocked numerous business opportunities related to the global circular economy.