EXPANDABLE GRAPHITE

Technical Infor mation

High-Tech in Raw Materials

 What is graphite?
Like diamond, natural graphite is a special form of pure carbon. The basic structure of graphite consists of hexagonal
groups of carbon atoms, which form stable planar grids with only weak inter layer bonding. These characteristics are the
principal reason for the unique chemical and physical properties of graphite:
• Excellent electrical and thermal conductivity
• Excellent lubricating properties
• High resistance to oxidation particularly at elevated temperatures
• The ability of chemical molecules to be intercalated between the graphite layers

200 µm

Graphite flakes Crystal structure of graphite

What is expandable graphite?

Due to the layered structure of graphite, atoms or small molecules can be introduced between the carbon layers (Interca-
lation). During this process a so-called expandable graphite salt or GIC (Graphite Intercalation Compound) is produced.
High-grade expandable graphites have a greater proportion of intercalated layers. Usually sulphur or nitrogen compounds
are used as intercalation agents.
200µm

Expanded flake Graphite layers with intercalated molecules

How does expandable graphite act?

Under the influence of heat the layers separate like an
accordion, and the graphite flakes expand. Depending
upon the grade of material, expansion can commence at as
low as 150°C and can occur suddenly and rapidly. In the
case of free expansion the final volume can be several
hundred times greater than the initial volume. The proper-
ties of expandable graphite, i.e. initial expansion tempera-
ture and degree of expansion, are primarily defined by the
quality of intercalation (proportion of intercalated layers)
and by the intercalation agent.
 Expandable graphite as a flame retardant
One of the principal applications of
expandable graphite is as a flame retar-
dant. As a result of the heat of a fire the
graphite expands and creates an intu-
mescent layer on the surface of the
material. This retards the spread of fire
and minimises one of the most harmful
effects of combustion, the creation of
toxic gases and fumes.
Fields of application:
• Insulation foam, e.g. PU-rigid foam plates
• Soft foams, e.g. in furniture, mattresses
• Carpets, textiles
• Coatings
• Plastic foils
• Rubber products, e.g. conveyer belts
• Pipe closing systems

Fire reaction

O2 Heat Advantages

• Excellent flame retardant effect with low material use

• Free from halogens
Expanded graphite
• Free from heavy metals
Thermal
decomposition • Non-polluting
zone • Suitable for a wide range of applications
Flammable gas • Reduces fume formation
• Low costs
Basic material

Further applications

Graphite foil:

Expanded graphite is compacted and rolled out in a

calendering process to produce foils. From these foils
gaskets and compounds with excellent chemical and
thermal resistance can be produced.

Absorption medium:

Expanded graphite can be used to absorb certain liquids,

e.g. oil.

Covering material:

Expandable graphite is used in metallurgical industries as

a covering material for hot molten metal. In this application
graphite is used for thermal insulation and protection
against oxidation.
 Technical Data

Grade Carbon content Min. expansion rate Starting temperature Grain size
in % in cm3/g in ˚C
ES 350 F5 98 350 250 80% > 300 µm

ES 250 F5 98 250 250 80% > 300 µm

ES 250 B5 90 250 250 80% > 300 µm

ES 120 A8 85 120 250 80% > 180 µm

ES 200 A5 85 200 250 80% > 300 µm

ES 100 C10 92 100 250 80% < 150 µm

The above-mentioned grades are only a part of our wide range of expandable graphites and we are continuously conducting development
of special grades in order to meet the specific requirements of our customers (e.g. modified initial expansion temperature, different grain
size etc.).

Company profile
Graphit Kropfmühl AG is a long established company with
over 125 years experience as a supplier of high-quality gra-
des of graphite. In the last two decades we have developed
from being solely a producer of raw materials to an inter-
national stock exchange quoted specialist graphite compa-
ny with a wide product range. Recently this product range
has been further extended and now also includes silicon
metal.
Primarily we consider ourselves as a raw-material refining
company developing specialised products using high-tech-
nology processes and serving the needs of our customers
by being close to our markets and customer focussed. One
of our most important functions is that of ensuring continu-
ity and consistency of raw-material supplies, and in achie-
ving this goal we have acquired stakes in secured and con-
trolled graphite deposits in Africa and Asia.
On the basis of state-of-the-art, quality-conscious, and
application-oriented high technology production with a
highly qualified workforce, we consider that we are well pre-
pared to meet the challenges of the new millennium.
To summarise, Graphit Kropfmühl AG represents high-
technology in raw materials. Graphit Kropfmühl AG
Langheinrichstraße 1
Product range: 94051 Hauzenberg
- Macrocrystalline and microcrystalline natural graphites Germany
- High purity graphites Tel. +49 85 86 6 09 - 0
- Finely milled graphites Fax +49 85 86 6 09 - 1 12
- Synthetic graphites email: verkauf.gk@graphite.de
- Expandable graphites Web: www.graphite.de
Stand 01.2005 - II

- Graphite dispersions

The information provided herein is based on our current knowledge and experience in view of the many possible influences when working with and applying our products, it
is to be understood as a general guideline only and under no circumstances exempts users from conducting their own tests and trials. A legally binding guarantee of specific
properties or the products appropriateness for a specific application may NOT be inferred from the information contained herein. User is solely responsible for observing indu-
strial property rights as well as existing laws and provisions.