Prices for certain grades of graphite, which are used primarily in battery and refractory applications, are rising daily according to leading players in the industry, amid strong Asian demand for batteries, and a recovery in European refractory markets.
The grades rising most rapidly in price include all three 94-97% crystalline flake graphite categories, which are used as a high-quality refractory material, in friction materials (brake/clutch linings), lubricants and in the manufacture of graphite foil and long-life alkaline batteries.
A Germany-based processor of graphite grades told IM:...