Effect of synthesis parameters on characteristics of expanded graphite

Abstract

Effect of synthesis parameters on the characteristics of expanded graphite were studied. The starting sample, intercalated graphite, was treated by several methods: thermal shock (400, 1000°C) and programmed heating (400–700°C). The samples were examined by scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction analysis, and low-temperature nitrogen adsorption. The programmed-heating method yields better texture characteristics as compared with the thermal shock. The programmed-heating method was used to obtain high-quality expanded graphite with high specific surface area (299 m² g^–1) at a comparatively moderate temperature of 400°C.