A possible mechanism of sulphur-induced graphitization

Abstract Studies of the structural changes of sulphur-containing cokes heat treated in the region 1420 to 1945°C reveal sulphur-enhanced graphitization. The mechanism is assumed to be a decomposition process of interstitials between carbon layers. The (002) composite X-ray diffraction reflection profiles observed are ascribed to the enhancement of the mechanism by reaction between the interstitials and sulphur. The well-ordered structure formed may be the rhombohedral form of the lattice that converts to the more stable hexagonal form at higher temperatures.