Overview
Expanded graphite core material is produced by intercalating natural graphite flakes with acids (e.g., sulfuric acid) followed by rapid heating, causing volumetric expansion up to 300 times. This process creates a porous, worm-like structure that retains graphite's inherent properties while gaining mechanical flexibility. Unlike conventional graphite, expanded graphite can be compressed into sheets or molded forms without binders. Its unique microstructure provides exceptional sealing capabilities and thermal management performance, positioning it as a critical material in demanding industrial applications.
Physical and Chemical Properties
The material exhibits anisotropic thermal conductivity (5–150 W/m·K along the plane), with electrical resistivity ranging from 10–50 μΩ·m. Its compressibility allows density adjustments from 0.8 to 1.8 g/cm³ when formed, while maintaining temperature resistance from -200°C to 450°C in oxidizing environments. Chemically inert to most solvents, acids, and alkalis, expanded graphite demonstrates outstanding oxidation resistance compared to carbon fibers. The expansion ratio (typically 80–300 mL/g) directly influences its sealing performance and thermal properties, making it a tunable material for specific applications.
Main Applications
In industrial sealing, expanded graphite cores are die-cut into spiral-wound gaskets for chemical processing equipment, capable of withstanding extreme pressures and corrosive media. The automotive sector utilizes it for exhaust system seals and fuel cell components due to its vibration damping properties. Thermal management applications include heat spreaders in electronics and phase change material composites for energy storage. Recent developments in lithium-ion batteries employ expanded graphite as conductive scaffolds, leveraging its high surface area and electrochemical stability.
Safety and Storage
While non-toxic, expanded graphite dust requires proper ventilation during handling to prevent respiratory irritation. The material is classified as combustible dust (NFPA 652) when finely dispersed, necessitating explosion-proof equipment in processing facilities. Storage should avoid humid environments to prevent moisture absorption, which can affect compressibility. Bulk material should be palletized with plastic wrapping to minimize dust generation. For long-term storage, climate-controlled warehouses below 30°C are recommended.
B2B Procurement Guide
Industrial buyers should specify technical parameters including expansion volume (ASTM D7775), sulfur content (<1000 ppm for nuclear applications), and chloride levels (<50 ppm for semiconductor uses). Sample testing should verify recovery rate after compression cycling (typically >85% for quality grades). Leading manufacturers in China (e.g., SGL Carbon, GrafTech) offer customized formulations with enhanced properties like oxidation-resistant coatings. MOQ for specialty grades often starts at 500 kg, with lead times of 4–6 weeks for tailored products. Third-party certifications (ISO 9001, API 6FB for fire seals) are critical for mission-critical applications.
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