Formulation, structure and properties of carbon anodes from coal-tar pitch/petroleum pitch blends

Four different types of pitch (a coal-tar pitch, two coal-tar pitch/petroleum pitch blends and a petroleum pitch) were used for preparing bench-scale carbon anodes. Prior to the preparation of carbon anodes, the composition of the paste was optimized for each pitch. This optimization consisted of readjusting the pitch content and granulometric distribution of the calcined petroleum coke. It was monitored by means of an elongation test. The performance of the anodes was assessed by structural, mechanical and electrical characterization and also by air reactivity. The results showed the feasibility of the blends as binders for the preparation of carbon anodes.