Graphite is another allotrope of the element carbon (C) with a typical layered hexagonal structure. Its structure is composed of carbon atoms through sp² hybridization to form a hexagonal honeycomb planar layer, and the layers are combined by weak van der Waals forces. Hexagonal crystal system, space group: P6/mmc, unit cell parameter a ≈ 2.46 Å (bottom side length) c ≈ 6.70 Å (layer spacing), and the number of atoms in each unit cell is 4 carbon atoms. Natural graphite is used as a moderator for batteries, electric arc furnaces, and nuclear reactors because of its low neutron absorption cross section.

It is a naturally occurring allotrope of carbon, known as "black lead" or "pencil lead" in its high-purity form. The chemical formula is C and the atomic number is 6. It has a layered structure, in which carbon atoms form a hexagonal planar network structure with sp ² hybridized orbitals, and are stacked on top of each other through weak van der Waals forces. Due to its low hardness, it can leave marks on paper and is therefore used as a lead material for pencils. Graphite has good electrical and thermal conductivity, which makes it widely used in fields such as battery electrodes, electric brushes, and lubricants. Lubrication also makes it an ideal material for manufacturing mechanical parts and seals.