Exploring high-temperature graphitisation using an atomic adsorption spectrometer

Abstract

Graphite, a naturally occurring mineral, is essential in many modern technologies. It is routinely manufactured in an expensive, energy-intensive and wasteful process. This work explores the fundamentals of graphite synthesis. To facilitate this, a new technique is developed to rapidly achieve up to 3000 °C. New insights into the mechanism of graphite formation are established, in particular identification of key defects and nanostructures. Kinetics studies reveal that graphite formation is more rapid than traditionally considered.