Identification of Graphite Mechanical Behaviour & Dislocations by micro-Raman Microscopy

Using micro-Raman microscopy, we present graphite mechanical behaviour through the evolution of dislocation defect density and the resultant deformation (strain) in graphite components. The strengthening of the Raman-active G and D phonon modes observed in Raman spectrum under loading condition is attributed to an increase in number of dislocations in graphite structure. Increasing Raman peaks (IG & ID) strength linked with a generous number of dislocations indicates the potential capability of the Raman spectroscopy technique required to develop a mechanistic understanding of the complex mechanical behaviour of graphite for use in many industries and applications. Identification of deformation behaviour and a dislocation-mediated deformation process in graphite is the ultimate aim of our research to develop a better understanding of the graphite mechanical behaviour, important to clean nuclear fission energy technologies.