Is Graphite is Flamable? and is It Used in Die Lubricants?

All forms of carbon (diamond, graphite, amorphous, charcoal, buckminster fullerenes) will burn in oxygen at an elevated temperature, with the evolution of much heat, e.g.:

C (graphite, solid) + O₂(g) = CO₂(g) DH^q = -393 kJ mol^-1

Exactly at what temperatures is hard to find out. Since graphite is used in the manufacture of disc brake pads for high performance and racing cars (incl. F1, where the disc brakes are frequently seen to glowing at "red heat" - about 600 C), it's clear that graphite would have to be classified as "non-flammable." Possibly, it may depend on the surface area of the particles and the nature of any matrix or coating. For instance, no-one would regard iron metal as "flammable," yet apply a flame to some fine "iron wool" and blow on it - it burns vigorously. Finely divided lead metal bursts into flames spontaneously in pure oxygen.

And yes, graphite dispersed in oils is used in die lubricants.

GRAPHITE is non-flammable in bulk form, but combustible. A reducing agent. Mixtures of graphite dust and air are explosive when ignited.Reacts violently with very strong oxidizing agents such as fluorine, chlorine dioxide, and potassium peroxide. Almost inert chemically when in bulk form. Keep away from ignition sources and oxidizing agents.

For at least the last 40 years the graphite-in-water lubricants that have dominated the market preference for the type of lubricant used by the forging industry have not been challenged seriously by any other type of products.

Can't ANYBODY perform a simple search, instead of wasting our time asking for an elementary education in basic chemistry??????????????????????????

The lack of ambition among current posters is very depressing, and very distressing.

Graphite - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

GRUMP!

I know, I know.

"Why can't they be like we were, perfect in every way". (Bye Bye Birdie)

I agree, these people are too lazy to do their own research but it forces me to look things up that wouldn't normally be of interest to me. I learn a great deal from searches that I do for others. This doesn't mean that I condone the new uselessness of many people but it forces me to do something. I would love to see the internet and cell service go down for 2 weeks. Oh the carnage!!

I've worked in a few different industries and have learned a great deal but some things still come from these dusty old... what are they called again??? Oh yea, ENCYCLOPEDIA. Believe it or not books are still used for things other that doorstops and a good clubbing

I agree with you. I find myself answering some of these questions purely for my own interest, education or re-education.

Hi,

Be careful, Graphite dust in air is EXPLOSIVE !!!!!

It should be maintained in low and safe concentrations.

Good luck.

No, Yes in that order.

Bazzer

It is difficult to ignite, but not impossible. Remember Chernobyl.