Introduction: Carbon fibers are used as reinforcing material in polymer composites. They are obtained in various ways, and due to their properties they are indispensable in the aerospace, marine, space, sports, and engineering industries, as well as in orthotics and prosthetics, mainly with the aim of reducing the weight and increasing the rigidity of the orthotic or prosthetic device. Compared to other thermoplastic materials, carbon-reinforced polymer composites are much more expensive. Purpose: The purpose of this thesis is to review the literature in the field of polymer composites reinforced with carbon fibers, and to determine their advantages and disadvantages for use in orthotics and prosthetics compared to composites reinforced with other fibers. Methods: A descriptive methodology was used by studying national and international literature. Various databases were utilized such as: Springer Link, Emerald Group Publishing Limited, Sage publication, Google Scholar and Cobiss. Results: When selecting the optimal materials for orthoses and prostheses, their properties, such as density, strength, durability, biocompatibility and others must be taken into account. Discussion and conclusion: The use of carbon fibers in prosthetic sockets ensures lesser weight and thickness, and greater rigidity compared to non-reinforced thermoplastic materials. It is important to keep an eye on the research in the field of carbon fiber use in orthotics and prosthetics, with the aim of improving individual orthotic or prosthetic device.
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