Natural Graphite Production Process

Mining:
Graphite is extracted from natural deposits through surface or underground mining. The raw ore is typically mixed with other materials, requiring further processing.

Flotation:
The mined graphite ore undergoes froth flotation, where water and chemicals separate the graphite from impurities. This results in a concentrate containing higher graphite purity.

Chemical Purification:
The graphite concentrate is chemically treated (often with acids) to remove remaining impurities. This step increases purity to 99.95% or higher, required for battery-grade graphite.

Micronization:
The purified graphite is ground into fine particles to meet the size specifications for battery applications. This improves the material’s suitability for further processing.

Spheronization:
The graphite particles are shaped into spherical forms to increase packing density and improve conductivity in the battery anode. Spheronization enhances the material’s electrochemical performance.

Coating:
The spherical graphite is coated with a carbon layer, which enhances its conductivity and stability during battery cycling. This coating also protects the graphite from side reactions.

Thermal Purification:
In a high-temperature furnace, any remaining impurities are vaporized, achieving ultra-high purity (>99.99%). This step ensures the graphite meets stringent quality requirements for battery applications.