What is graphite?
Graphite is a naturally occurring modification of carbon (chemical formula: C). Its atoms arrange themselves in the hexagonal pattern, which is typical for carbon, and thus form a hexagonal layered lattice. Graphite gets its typical grey color from its opaque grey to black crystals. While diamond, another carbon modification, is the hardest naturally occurring material in the world, with a value of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, Graphite is one of the softest, with a value of 1-2—the different properties of graphite and diamond result from their structure.
Structure and properties of graphite
Graphite has a layer structure. In each layer, each carbon atom is bound to three others. This results in a two-dimensional network of hexagons. There are strong bonds within each layer, but the bonds are very weak between the different layers. Thus, the layers can easily be shifted against each other and even separated. This structure is why Graphite is very soft and even used as a lubricant. But Graphite has other special properties as well. The fact that Graphite is electrically conductive results from its atomic structure. Each carbon atom in a graphite crystal has four valence electrons, also called outer electrons, which can form bonds with neighboring atoms. However, only three of the four valence electrons enter into a bond, while the fourth electron remains freely mobile and thus allows electricity to be conducted.
Thermal conductivity of graphite
Graphite has excellent thermal conductivity combined with high-temperature resistance. Graphite does not have a melting point; it changes from the solid state directly into the gaseous state. This process is called sublimation. Graphite becomes plastically deformable in an inert gas atmosphere starting at 2500 °C. At temperatures above 3750 °C, Graphite sublimates even without oxygen. Graphite is one of the most chemically resistant materials. It is resistant to almost all media of organic chemistry. These typically include the intermediate and end products in the petrochemicals, coal refining, plastics industry, paints, coatings, refrigerants, antifreeze, and cosmetics and food industries. Graphite is also resistant to most inorganic media, such as non-oxidizing acids, alkalis, aqueous salt solutions, and most technical gases.
Price of graphite
Graphite particle size and purity will affect the product's Price, and the purchase volume can also affect the cost of Graphite. A large amount of large amount will be lower. The Price of graphite is on our company's official website.
Graphite supplier
Mis-Asia is a reliable and high-quality global chemical material supplier and manufacturer. It has over 12 years of experience providing ultra-high quality chemicals and nanotechnology materials, including graphite, nitride powder, graphite powder, sulfide powder, and 3D printing powder. If you are looking for high-quality and cost-effective graphite, you are welcome to contact us or inquire any time.
