Graphite Powder: Uses, Types, and How to Source from China
Graphite powder is a versatile material widely used in industries like lubricants, batteries, and refractories. Its unique properties, such as high thermal conductivity and chemical resistance, make it indispensable. This guide covers everything from types to sourcing strategies, helping you make informed decisions.
How to Find Reliable Graphite Powder from China in 2025
China dominates the global graphite powder market, offering competitive pricing and scalable production. To identify trustworthy suppliers:
- Verify certifications like ISO 9001 and RoHS compliance.
- Request samples to test quality consistency.
- Check supplier reviews on platforms like Alibaba or Made-in-China.
- Confirm logistics support (e.g., FOB terms, bulk shipping discounts).
Top regions for sourcing include Shandong and Heilongjiang, where graphite mining is concentrated.
What Buyers Should Know Before Buying Graphite Powder from China
Key considerations:
- Purity levels: Ranging from 80% to 99.9%, affecting performance in high-tech applications.
- Particle size: Fine powders (1-10 microns) for coatings vs. coarse (50+ microns) for lubricants.
- Customization options: Some suppliers offer surface treatments (e.g., oxidation resistance).
Tip: Negotiate MOQs (Minimum Order Quantities) – many Chinese factories accept 500kg+ orders.
Types of Graphite Powder
1. Natural graphite powder: Mined and processed, cost-effective for general industrial use.
2. Synthetic graphite powder: Higher purity (up to 99.9%), ideal for lithium-ion batteries.
3. Expandable graphite powder: Used in flame-retardant materials.
4. Nano graphite powder: Ultra-fine particles for conductive coatings.
Functions and Features of Graphite Powder
Core advantages:
- Thermal stability: Withstands temperatures up to 3,000°C in inert atmospheres.
- Self-lubrication: Reduces friction in mechanical parts without liquid lubricants.
- Electrical conductivity: 3-5x better than carbon black in battery anodes.
Case study: A German automotive supplier reduced bearing wear by 40% using graphite powder additives.
Scenarios of Graphite Powder
Primary applications:
- Battery manufacturing (70% of synthetic graphite demand)
- Foundry coatings for mold release
- Conductive plastics in electronics
- Industrial lubricants for high-temperature machinery
How to Choose Graphite Powder
Match these specs to your needs:
| Application | Recommended Type | Key Specs |
|---|---|---|
| Batteries | Synthetic | ≥99.5% purity, D50 10-20μm |
| Lubricants | Natural flake | 80-90% purity, 50-100μm |
Graphite Powder Q & A
Q: Is Chinese graphite powder quality reliable?
A: Yes, top-tier Chinese suppliers meet international standards. Always verify test reports for sulfur content (<0.1%) and ash content (<0.5%).
Q: What’s the price range?
A: $800-$3,000/ton depending on purity and particle size (2024 market data).
Q: How to handle graphite dust during processing?
A: Use closed systems with HEPA filters – graphite particles smaller than 10μm pose inhalation risks.
