Graphite derives its name from the Greek word "graphein", to write. The material is generally greyish-black, opaque and has a lustrous black sheen. It is unique in that it has properties of both a metal and a non-metal. It is flexible but not elastic, has a high thermal and electrical conductivity, and is highly refractory and chemically inert. Graphite has a low adsorption of X-rays and neutrons making it a particularly useful material in nuclear applications.

The unusual combination of properties is due its crystal structure. The carbon atoms are arranged hexagonally in a planar condensed ring system. The layers are stacked parallel to each other. The atoms within the rings are bonded covalently, whilst the layers are loosely bonded together by van der Waals forces. The high degree of anisotropy in graphite results from the two types of bonding acting in different crystallographic directions. For example, graphite's ability to form a solid film lubricant comes from these two contrasting chemical bonds. The fact that weak Van der Waals forces govern the bonding between individual layers permits the layers to slide over one another making it an ideal lubricant. World production of graphite was estimated to be about 602,000 tons in 2000, with China being the biggest producer followed by India, Brazil, Mexico and then the Czech Republic.