Graphite is a natural mineral composed of carbon, known for being black, soft and capable of conducting electricity, used in pencils as well as in modern technologies such as batteries, smartphones, computers, etc.
Why is graphite needed?
The world is becoming aware of the reality: our consumption of fossil fuels to produce energy has a negative impact on our planet.
Alternative and clean forms of energy, as well as storage solutions, are rapidly developing. This movement notably includes the electrification of consumer cars and other vehicles that, until now, ran on gasoline.
Why is this important?
Did you know that?
An electric vehicle battery can contain several tens of kilograms more graphite than lithium. We’re talking about 20 to 30 times more graphite than lithium. On average, an electric vehicle battery takes 50 kg of graphite compared to a hybrid vehicle which takes 10 kg.
With rising fuel prices and the urgent need for green solutions, graphite will play a central role in the electric vehicle industry in the coming years.
Graphite Market
- Primary battery
- Secondary battery – EV
- Industry, aerospace, solar panels
- Fuel cells Nuclear industry (high-quality graphite; PBMR, shielding)
- Aerospace (coatings and dispersion)
- Ceramics
- Lubricants
- Thermal plastics (PEEK / PTFE) and plastics
- Construction industry (reinforced concrete)
- Crayons
- Sports equipment (tennis racket, badminton racket, pickleball racket)
Graphite is essential for the energy transition
Graphite 101
Graphite possesses extraordinary qualities and almost limitless potential applications across numerous sectors. It is one of the world’s most versatile non-metallic minerals, boasting the highest natural strength of any material. It is also one of the lightest reinforcing agents, yet capable of withstanding temperatures exceeding 3,600°C without any loss of strength or stability.
Flake Graphite
This is the most recognizable form of natural graphite. It is used in:
- lead pencils
- emerging technologies such as lithium-ion batteries
It is present in metamorphic rocks and has a carbon content of 85 to 98%. This type of graphite is essential to the green energy revolution, and it is precisely this flake graphite that is found on the La Loutre property in Lomiko, Quebec.
Amorphous Graphite
This is the most abundant form of graphite. It has:
- the lowest purity of the three types
- a cost approximately four times lower than flake graphite
Thanks to its flexibility, it can be used:
- industrial lubricant or grease
- additive to metallic alloys
High Crystalline Graphite
Also known as lumpy or veined graphite, this type of graphite can only be extracted in Sri Lanka.
It presents:
- a purity of 90 to 99%
- very limited availability, making it unsuitable for companies needing significant quantities.