Petroleum coke, a carbon-based substance, is used in various industrial processes. Petroleum coke has a variety of uses, from aluminum smelting to the production of steel, to foundries to fire safety. This carbon material is used in high-end applications because of its unique properties. For its properties to be improved, petroleum coke is heated at high temperatures in a process called graphitization. Petroleum coke is ideal for industrial use because it has a high carbon content after graphitization. It is also thermally stable and can withstand a range of temperatures. It has low sulfur and nitrogen content, making it a safer choice for a variety of industries that have strict quality requirements.
The first step of the graphitization is calcining. This removes impurities from petroleum coke and moisture to produce a briquetted material. The calcination also increases its electrical conduction, which is good for industrial applications.
After calcination, the granulated product is then subjected to graphitization, which transforms the amorphous carbon structure into an ordered graphite crystal. After graphitization, petroleum coke shows improved thermal and electronic conductivity, along with a reduced vapor pressure and coefficient. This process can also reduce its sulfur content. This is useful for industries that demand a no-sulfur product.
There are many types of petroleum koke, each with a different degree of graphitization. The lowest quality petroleum coke is called boiler or fuel coke and contains a lot of sulfur and heavy metals. This coke is used in power plants as well as cement kilns. The higher grade vacuum residues, also known as metallurgical and met coke, are mainly utilized in aluminum elctrolysis and carbon fibre production.
While all petroleum coke is a combustible solid, the differences between different grades of petcoke are significant. The morphology can vary from fine powders to angular needles or grains, and some have an almost crystalline texture. This technical presentation includes electron scanning images of three different graphitizable calcined PETCOKEs: CK-1 CK-2 CK-3.
The analysis reveals that CK-1 had a peak in the Raman spectrum, whereas CK-2 or CK-3 didn't have the classic Graphene signature. This shows the CK-1 possessed a significant amount after the ECE treatment of graphite like material, whereas the CK-2 & CK-3 did. The presence of graphite allows for better understanding of acid effects, electrolyte interaction and their use in industrial process. It is also important to note that these differences in morphology may affect their chemical stability, as well as their ability for layer exfoliation and deposition during annealing. This information will help to guide future research into new and innovative applications for these valuable resources.
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