Why graphite is a good conductor of electricity?

Graphite is a naturally-occurring form of carbon. It is widely used in many industries due to its unique properties and ability to conduct electricity. In this blog, we will explore why graphite is a good conductor of electricity, its advantages, and the different applications you can use.

Introduction

Graphite is an allotrope of carbon composed of carbon atoms in a hexagonal lattice formation. It is a naturally occurring mineral in many parts of the world, including China, India, and the United States. Graphite is a soft, black, and shiny mineral known for its lubricating properties and ability to conduct electricity.

Graphite is a very versatile material. It is used in various industries, such as eaf steelmaking, manufacturing, and electronics. It also produces certain types of batteries, paints, and lubricants. Graphite also makes fireproof materials, such as fire retardants, insulation, and fireproofing agents.

Is graphite a good conductor of electricity？

Yes. Graphite, with its unique molecular structure, possesses excellent electrical conductivity, making it an excellent conductor of electricity. This property can be attributed to several factors, including the valence electrons, individual electrons of each carbon atom, and the presence of free electrons within the material.

In graphite, the carbon atoms are arranged in a hexagonal lattice formation with many carbon atoms present. Each carbon atom in the lattice contributes four valence electrons, the electrons involved in bonding. These valence electrons participate in solid covalent bonds, connecting the carbon atoms to form the hexagonal rings.

However, within the layers of the graphite structure, there are also free electrons that are not involved in covalent bonding and are loosely held by the carbon atoms. These free electrons are mobile and can move freely within the layers of the graphite structure.

As a result, graphite exhibits high electrical conductivity, as the free electrons can quickly transfer from one carbon atom to another, facilitating the efficient flow of electrical current through the material.

How Can Graphite Conduct Electricity？

Graphite can conduct electricity through a process called “tunneling.” This process allows electrons to move between carbon atoms in the graphite lattice without direct contact. The electrons can “tunnel” through the lattice and move from one bit to another. This allows for the efficient transmission of electricity through the graphite lattice.

In addition, graphite has a large surface area, allowing for the efficient transmission of electricity. This is because the graphite lattice structure has many tiny holes, which allow for the efficient information of electricity. People often use graphite in applications requiring high electrical conductivity, such as batteries and electrical components.

Advantages of Using Graphite as a Conductor of Electricity

First, it is an efficient electrical conductor due to its molecular structure, with relatively low resistance, which is more conducive to the movement of electrons.

In addition, graphite is resistant to corrosion and oxidation and does not react with most chemicals or gases. It is inert at low temperatures and does not oxidize until 450°C. At the same time, it can conduct heat efficiently and has a high melting point. As an efficient thermal conductor, it is conducive to the rapid transfer of heat.

Finally, graphite has high-temperature mechanical strength. The mechanical strength is not high at average temperature, but it will increase as the temperature rises. Between 2000-2500 degrees Celsius, the mechanical strength is about twice that of room temperature, and its strength is higher than any other material. For example, graphite electrodes are used in electric arc furnace steelmaking.

Applications

Graphite is a versatile material with many unique properties. Humans have used graphite in electrical conductors since the 19th century, and modern-day graphite conductors are now used in various applications.  People often use it in industry, such as in producing graphite electrodes, semiconductors, batteries, and fuel cells. It also can use in consumer electronics, such as cell phones and computers, and electric vehicles.

The use of graphite as an electrical conductor is also beneficial in terms of energy efficiency. Graphite’s low electrical resistance means less energy is lost to heat, which can result in more efficient electricity use. This can have a significant impact on reducing energy costs and emissions. In industrial applications, graphite electrodes are used as good conductors in electric arc furnaces to smelt steel, which is the only conductor raw material currently available.

Conclusion

Graphite is a good conductor of electricity due to its unique molecular structure and large surface area. It is a highly efficient conductor of electricity and is resistant to corrosion and oxidation. It is also lightweight and durable, making it useful in various applications.