Dry Carbon Fiber vs. Wet Carbon Fiber
Many people do not realize that the carbon fiber product they are purchasing is not entirely carbon fiber. True carbon fiber is made in a pre-preg and dry process which consists of vacuum forming sheets of carbon fiber into a mold at temperatures around 350° F. This process allows carbon fiber to form into a strong and lightweight composite.
On the other hand, wet carbon fiber is formed by using hand laid carbon fiber sheets into a mold then mixed with resin. This process may allow air pockets to form in the carbon fiber material. This makes the wet carbon fiber structure weak and also is susceptible to changes in temperature.
The Differences
You can usually notice the difference between wet carbon fiber and dry carbon fiber by looking at the surface of the material. Dry carbon fiber surfaces are smooth and show no air bubble pockets. In contrast, wet carbon fiber is wavy and air bubble pockets are noticeable. Because of the molding process, dry carbon cost more to produce then wet carbon. However, as wet carbon fiber looses its durability over time, dry carbon comes out as a product that endures any conditions due to wear and tear.