Oxidation reaction in graphite—role of particle characterstics

Diffusion controlled reactions involve square of the particle size as a significant controlling factor and great attention should be given to characterize the particles. Common observations are that imperfections present within pores, cracks, voids, etc., play a critical role in further reactions, leading to anisotropic reaction behaviour. Two different graphites of different physico-chemical properties and having different particle sizes were studied and it was found that the particles, irrespective of their initial particle characteristics, exhibit the same time period for completion of reaction, and the rate of reaction towards completion is variable with particle characteristics and atmosphere employed.