Metal generally has higher thermal conductivity than carbon fiber. Thermal conductivity refers to the ability of a material to conduct heat. Metals, such as copper or aluminum, are known for their high thermal conductivity due to the presence of free electrons that can easily transfer thermal energy. The free electrons in metals contribute significantly to heat conduction.
On the other hand, carbon fiber, which is composed of carbon atoms arranged in a specific pattern, has lower thermal conductivity compared to metals. Carbon fiber is primarily used for its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio and is commonly used in applications where lightweight and high strength are crucial, such as aerospace and automotive industries. While carbon fiber is a good thermal insulator, it is not as effective at conducting heat compared to metals.
It's worth noting that the thermal conductivity of a material can vary depending on its specific composition, structure, and manufacturing processes. However, as a general trend, metals tend to exhibit higher thermal conductivity than carbon fiber.