Everything About Graphite

06 May.,2024

 

Everything About Graphite

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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. Within each layer there are strong bonds, but between the different layers the bonds are very weak. Thus, the layers can easily be shifted against each other and even separated. This structure is the reason graphite is very soft and is even used as a lubricant. But graphite has other special properties as well:

Electrical conductivity of graphite

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.

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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. In an inert gas atmosphere, graphite becomes plastically deformable starting at a temperature of 2500 °C. At temperatures above 3750 °C graphite sublimates even without the presence of oxygen.

Chemical resistance of graphite

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/or end products in the petrochemicals, coal refining, plastics industry, the production of paints, coatings, refrigerants and antifreeze, but also in the 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.

Download: Chemical resistance of natural graphite

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