Carbon Rod vs Graphite Rod

Definition

Graphite rods are rod-shaped electrode materials made of pure graphite materials after processing and high-temperature graphitization.

Carbon rods are a mixture of carbon powder and binder, which are directly carbonized at high temperature without graphitization.

Comparing Properties

Physical properties
Density: The density of graphite rods is higher than that of carbon rods, but the latter will be harder.
Resistivity: Graphite rods have low resistivity and good conductivity.
High temperature resistance: As an electrode material, graphite rods are more stable in high temperature environments.

Chemical properties
Carbon rods are chemically inert and generally not destroyed by chemical reactions and are not easily corroded.
Graphite rods have certain chemical activity, you’ll find that their properties are easily change in oxidants or chemical reactions.

Difference in Applications

1. Application of graphite rods

(1) Polymer batteries: Graphite rods can be used as conductive materials for battery electrodes. Such as secondary lithium-ion batteries and polymer batteries, etc.

(2) Waste gas treatment: They can be used as process materials for gas treatment devices to purify waste gas;

(3) Conductive materials: You can also use it to manufacture conductive materials, such as electromagnetic wires, carbon rush, capacitors, etc.

2. Carbon rod uses

(1) Match heads: When producing match heads, phospholipids and wood are needed, and some powders and carbon powders are added to react with red phosphorus. The added carbon powder is the carbon rod;

(2) Dry cell batteries: Carbon rods are one of the main components of dry cell batteries. You can use it as the basis of electrolyte and electrode materials;

(3) Electric furnaces: The electrodes in electric furnaces are made of carbon rods. They are usually used in petrochemical and aluminum industries, etc.

Conclusion

Although graphite rods and carbon rods are both conductive materials and can conducts electricity, there are some differences in their raw materials, processing and use. Graphite rods have high conductivity, high temperature stability and wear resistance. They have a wide range of applications, including polymer batteries, waste gas treatment, conductive materials, etc. Carbon rods are usually used in dry batteries, match heads, electric furnaces, etc. For different needs, you can choose the appropriate material according to the actual situation.