Graphite; artificial

HS code 380110 covers artificial graphite, a versatile material with a wide range of industrial applications. Graphite is a crystalline form of carbon known for its high thermal and electrical conductivity, as well as its lubrication properties. The artificial production of graphite has become increasingly important, as it allows for the tailoring of specific properties to meet the demands of various industries, from electronics to metallurgy.

Artificial graphite is typically produced through the thermal decomposition of hydrocarbon materials, such as petroleum coke or coal tar pitch. The raw materials are heated to high temperatures, often in the absence of oxygen, to induce the transformation into a crystalline graphite structure. This process can be further refined and controlled to produce graphite with specific characteristics, such as particle size, purity, and degree of crystallinity.

The main inputs required for the production of artificial graphite include hydrocarbon-based raw materials, such as petroleum coke or coal tar pitch, as well as specialized equipment for the high-temperature processing and purification of the graphite. Depending on the desired properties, additional additives or processing steps may be required to achieve the necessary characteristics.

The primary outputs of the artificial graphite industry are various grades and forms of graphite, which are then consumed by a wide range of industries. These include 854511 electrodes, 854512 resistors, 854519 other electrical machinery and equipment, 722830 other drawing, rolling or extruding machines, and 681510 non-metallic mineral products, among others. The versatility of artificial graphite makes it a valuable material in numerous applications, from electronics and energy storage to metallurgy and lubricants.