Patent ID: 6669919
Filing Date: 2003-12-30
Classification: C01B

Abstract:
A method for providing intercalated graphite flake with improved exfoliation characteristics, comprising: (i) treating graphite flakes with an oxidizing intercalant solution to provide intercalated graphite flakes; (ii) washing the intercalated graphite flakes; (iii) adding a surfactant to the washed graphite flakes; and (iv) exposing the graphite flakes to an expansion aid applied prior to, during or immediately after treatment with the oxidizing intercalant solution, wherein said expansion aid is selected from the group consisting of carboxylic acids consisting of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen atoms; alkyl esters; naphthoic acids; anthranilic acid; p-aminobenzoic acid; acetoacetoamidobenzoic acids; acetamidobenzoic acids; anhydrides of the aforementioned acids; and mixtures thereof.