Graphite (Noun)
Meaning
Used as a lubricant and as a moderator in nuclear reactors.
Classification
Nouns denoting substances.
Examples
- Graphite is used as a dry lubricant in applications where liquid lubricants are impractical, such as at high temperatures.
- The graphite core in some nuclear reactors helps to moderate the speed of neutrons and increase the reaction rate.
- Due to its thermal and chemical stability, graphite is commonly used as a neutron moderator in gas-cooled, fast breeder, and high-temperature reactors.
- Graphite has been used in place of traditional oil-based lubricants due to its high melting point and ability to stay in the lubrication zone.
- In pressurized water reactors, graphite is not generally used as a moderator, but as a lubricant for control rod mechanisms and other moving parts.