Surface analysis of nuclear graphite

In this short study we will explore the differences in surface chemistry between two different graphites used in the nuclear industry. In recent times a wide variety of nanostructured carbon forms have been observed in nuclear graphite which vary the graphitic nature of the material. The nature of these forms can greatly affect the material’s ability to act as an effective moderator. Here we will discuss the elemental composition of the graphite surface and the extent of graphitic sp2 bonding.