Graphite
Graphite is a soft, black, non-metallic mineral that is composed of up to 99.9 percent carbon. It is also referred to as one of the three allotropic forms of carbon, along with amorphous and diamond. Graphite has been mined since prehistoric times and has found use in a wide range of applications.
In its natural state, graphite is composed of four different types of graphite crystals: flake, crystalline, micronized, and amorphous. Each of the crystals has a different set of properties, making it an important material in many industries. Flake graphite is the most common form and is composed of flat, platy flakes. Its most common use is in the form of pencil leads or lubricant sticks.
Crystalline graphite is a more inter-connected form that has a greater crystallinity and a higher degree of purity. It is more commonly used as a lubricant, a high temperature additive, and a refractory material. Micronized graphite has a high degree of fine particle size and is used for certain high-precision machining processes, such as polishing, lubrication, and coating.
Amorphous graphite is the closest form to graphite’s natural state, and is typically a product of volcanic rock or sedimentary formations. It has a relatively low degree of purity and is mainly used as a refractory and lubricating material, or in the production of industrial rubber and gasket materials.
Graphite has several important properties that make it widely used in various industries. Its high melting point, low thermal conductivity and high electrical conductivity make it a superior material for use as an electrical energy source, a structural material and a lubricant. Graphite is also highly resistant to oxidation and corrosion, making it an ideal choice for a variety of applications.
In addition to its many industrial uses, graphite has also been used in art and medicine. Graphite powder has been used to create various forms of art, from pencil drawings to sculptures. It has also been used to create anesthetic, therapeutic, and antiseptic products.
Graphite continues to be a widely used material for many different applications, from pencils to aerospace components. The materials unique properties make it a popular choice for many different industries, and its many uses continue to find new and innovative applications.
