Flake graphite is a naturally occurring form of graphite that is typically found as discrete flakes ranging in size from 50 to 800 micrometers in diameter and 1-50 micrometers thick. This form of graphite has a high degree of “crystallinity”, which equates to near theoretical true density, high thermal and electric conductivity, and low springback (excellent molding characteristics.) Flake graphite is used in many applications including but not limited to powder metallurgy, fuel cell bi-polar plates, coatings, thermal materials, friction moderators, electrically conductive materials, refractories, general lubricant applications, pencils, gaskets, rubber compounds, other advanced polymer systems. Commercial grades are available in purities ranging from 80-99.9% carbon, and sizes from 2 to 800 micrometers.
Flake graphiteis found in metamorphic rocks uniformly distributed through the body of the ore or in concentrated lens shaped pockets. Carbon concentrations vary between 5% and 40%. Graphite flake occurs as a scaly or lamella form in certain metamorphic rocks such as limestone, gneisses and schists.
Flake graphite is removed by froth flotation. "As floated" graphite contains between 80% and 90% graphite. Flake graphite is produced with >98% through chemical beneficiation processes. Flake graphite occurs in most parts of the world.