Last week, the Engineering Department received a few RFQs requesting natural graphite. Graphel has received questions on the topic of natural graphite and synthetic graphite. This article explores the characteristics, production processes, and applications of natural and synthetic graphite and clarifies any confusion about the two materials.

 

1. Composition:

– Synthetic Graphite: Produced from a carbonaceous feedstock through high-temperature processing, synthetic graphite exhibits a highly ordered atomic structure. It boasts a purity level exceeding 99% carbon, with the remaining impurities mainly comprising ash and volatile materials.

– Natural Graphite: Derived from naturally occurring mineral deposits, natural graphite is formed through the metamorphism of organic material. It consists of varying carbon content, typically ranging from 15% to 95%, with the remaining composition comprising impurities such as ash, sulfur, and trace elements.

 

2. Manufacturing Processes:

– Synthetic Graphite: The production of synthetic graphite involves graphitizing carbonaceous materials, such as petroleum coke or coal tar pitch, at temperatures exceeding 2,500°C. This process enables the alignment of carbon atoms, resulting in a highly crystalline structure with excellent thermal and electrical conductivity.

– Natural Graphite: Extracted from mines or quarries, natural graphite undergoes several mechanical and chemical treatments to enhance its quality. These processes include milling, flotation, purification, and micronization, allowing for removing impurities and adjusting particle size and distribution.

 

3. Physical and Chemical Properties:

– Synthetic Graphite: Synthetic graphite possesses superior physical properties compared to its natural counterpart. It exhibits high density, low porosity, and remarkable thermal and electrical conductivity. Additionally, synthetic graphite offers excellent resistance to chemical corrosion, making it suitable for demanding applications.

– Natural Graphite: Natural graphite exhibits lower density, higher porosity, and moderate thermal and electrical conductivity. Its properties can vary depending on the origin and processing techniques employed. While it may not have the same performance level as synthetic graphite, natural graphite still finds wide application in various industries.

 

4. Applications:

– Synthetic Graphite: Owing to its exceptional properties, synthetic graphite finds extensive utilization in advanced industries. It is an essential component in lithium-ion batteries, enhancing their energy density and extending their lifespan. Synthetic graphite is also utilized in high-temperature applications like crucibles, electrodes, and heating elements.

– Natural Graphite: Natural graphite finds application in diverse sectors. It is commonly used as a lubricant due to its self-lubricating properties. Additionally, natural graphite is employed in the steel and automotive industries for crucibles, foundry coatings, brake linings, and gaskets. It also serves as an anode material in alkaline batteries and in nuclear reactors as a moderator.

 

While both synthetic graphite and natural graphite share carbon as their primary constituent, they possess distinct characteristics, manufacturing processes, and applications. Synthetic graphite boasts superior physical properties and finds usage in advanced technologies, particularly in the energy storage sector. On the other hand, natural graphite offers a more cost-effective solution for various industrial applications. Understanding the differences between these two forms of graphite facilitates informed decision-making when selecting the appropriate graphite type for specific applications. For additional questions on this topic or other graphite-related questions, contact Graphel Carbon Products. We look forward to providing a solution for you.