Expandable graphite

If exposed to a rapid increase in temperature, these intercalation compounds decompose into gaseous products, which results in high inter-graphene layer pressure. This pressure develops enough force to push apart graphite basal planes in the “c” axis direction.

The result is an increase in the volume of the graphite of up to 300 times, a lowering of bulk density, and approximately a 10-fold increase in surface area.

Graphite Central expandable graphite is used as a fire suppressant intumescent additive, as a raw material to manufacture graphite gasket products, as an electrically conductive filler, as a foundry additive, and in a wide variety of other industrial applications.

Key benefits of choosing GraphiteCentral as your expandable graphite supplier

Here’s a concise pitch for why GraphiteCentral positions itself (and can be viewed) as a top expandable-graphite supplier in the U.S.:

1. Large U.S. Inventory

   GraphiteCentral claims to hold one of the largest graphite inventories in the U.S., including specialty grades like expandable graphite. 

   • This means faster lead times and reduced dependency on long international shipping.

   • It also helps buffer against global supply chain disruptions.

    

2. Guaranteed Supply Despite Export Restrictions

   The company emphasizes that it has secured Chinese export licenses ahead of many competitors, giving it an edge in maintaining supply even when export controls tighten. 

   • This is especially relevant as many graphite sources and processing occur in China, and export restrictions can heavily impact availability.

    

3. Expertise in Expandable Graphite Processing

   GraphiteCentral offers not just stock expandable graphite, but also the ability to do purification, ultra-fine grinding, blending, and customization. 

   • For clients who require specific expansion ratios, particle sizes, or purity levels, this capability is critical.

    

4. High Quality Specifications

   Their published specs show high carbon content (≥ 99 %), low ash, controlled water/volatile content, and strong expansion volume performance (e.g. 200–220 cc/g) for their expandable graphite. 

   • Such specifications are competitive in the industry and essential for performance in applications like fire retardants, gaskets, coatings, etc.

    

5. Reputation & Industry Visibility

   GraphiteCentral is listed in U.S. industrial supplier directories (e.g. ThomasNet) as a manufacturer and distributor of expandable graphite in the U.S. 

   • Presence in these directories strengthens legitimacy and makes them accessible to engineers and buyers.

    

6. Broad Applications & Versatility

   Their expandable graphite is marketed for a wide variety of uses: melt covers, fire retardants, sealing/gaskets, conductive fillers, oil recovery, etc. 

   • This breadth of applicability suggests they understand diverse client needs and have technical depth.

    

If you like, I can also prepare a side-by-side comparison (GraphiteCentral vs 2–3 competitors) to highlight where they truly stand out. Do you want me to do that?