This has paid off and the citizens are the winners. Carbon fiber is a strong, lightweight, heat-resistant material used mainly by the aerospace industry, though uses are quickly expanding. During the carbonization process, the fiber is blanketed with liquid nitrogen, providing an inert atmosphere that prevents oxidation. Currently, Zoltek is trucking liquid nitrogen to Abilene. We're planning a considerable expansion in Abilene, so this will have a reasonable payback.
Liquid nitrogen poses no environmental hazards.
Construction of the facility will begin before winter and take approximately 15 months, Greenwell said. Dirt work has begun and the shell should be complete before winter weather strikes. Greenwell explained the company wants a facility big enough to add up to 15 production lines as needed. The expansion is sure to inject scores more jobs into the economy and millions to the tax base, though exactly how much remains unsure. Greenwell raved about the Abilene workers Zoltek has hired and the local business climate.