Catalytic graphitization of carbon using titanium and zirconium

The role of titanium and zirconium as graphitization catalysts was studied using anisotropic carbons prepared from Gilsonite pitch and acenaphthylene (HHT 1173°K), and an isotropic carbon prepared from a phenol-hexamine resin (HTT 1273°K). Heat-treated mixtures of metal and carbon, HTT 2673 and 3073°K were examined by polarized-light optical microscopy, line-broadening analyses of X-ray diffraction profiles and electron probe measurements. Both metals are effective as catalysts, producing crystallites with dimensions of about 200 nm at 3073°K. The extent of graphitization increases with metal content to about 10% of metal. Diffusion of titanium and zirconium within the carbon matrix is significant. Graphitic material is precipitated from solution of carbon in titanium and zirconium. There is no evidence of carbide formation.