This paper reports the systematic characterisation of changes in the structure and properties of a series of unidirectional carbon-carbon composites at key stages of processing. The composites were fabricated from PAN-based carbon fibres (surface treated and untreated) and two carbon matrix systems (graphitising and non-graphitising). The effects of matrix shrinkage, together with thermal expansion mismatch and interfacial bonding, established the composite structure and hence the composite properties. The morphology and interconnectivity of the shrinkage cracks, the strength and nature of the fibre-matrix interfacial interaction and the development of matrix texture were identified as key structural features. These features were characterised and their effect on subsequent processing stages (densification) and composite properties was determined.
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