About graphite:
Graphite has always been an essential mineral and, as the world approaches 2001 and technology soars forward, demand continues to increase.
Based on U.S. Government estimates, the world market for carbon and graphite products in 1991 was US$5.5 billion.
Production materials most in demand in the future will be lighter, thinner, stronger, more resilient, more conductive, less corrosive, and tolerant of temperature extremes. Graphite meets all these criteria.
The challenge will be to source sufficient quantities of graphite to meet these needs.
What's driving the demand for graphite?
Automobiles Graphite is already being used to replace asbestos in many automotive functions. It is used for gaskets and brake linings, and will be in increasing demand for fuel cell engines and electric motors.
Computers Global computerization demands ultra-pure forms of graphite, for electrical components and circuitry.
Sports Equipment Because of its energy-absorbing quality, graphite is used to develop high-performance golf clubs, tennis racquets, hockey sticks and other equipment.
General Industry Chemically inert, unaffected by corrosion and an excellent conductor of electricity, graphite is an essential component of electric motors, welding rods, coatings and electrodes.
Consumer Products As automation increases, so does the demand for graphite in electrical systems and circuits.
Aerospace Because graphite is light and strong, but essentially because it can withstand the most extreme temperatures in the universe, it is in demand for surface tiles on space shuttles and in nuclear technology as a neutron moderator.
Diamonds Carbon is an element (C) that occurs in its pure state in predominantly two forms: graphite...and diamonds. Therefore, it is not surprising that graphite is essential for the manufacture of artificial diamonds. |
