Abstract: Partially expanded graphite flake having a specific volume of no more than about 50 cm3/g, more preferably, about 10-25 cm3/g has excellent sheet forming properties and is readily moldable to form molded products, such as gaskets. The partially expanded graphite flake may be produced by a low temperature process, in which the flakes are first intercalated with an intercalation solution, then subjected to a low temperature exfoliation of below about 500° C. In an alternative process, the flakes are intercalated with no more than about 40 pph of an intercalation solution (less if the particles are not subjected to a subsequent washing step) and then exfoliated at conventional exfoliation temperatures of about 800° C.

Abstract: A method and system for generating and processing billing and payment information for a service provided by service providers in multiple tiers includes collecting usage information of the service by a customer from one of the tiers of the multiple tiers or a third party. The usage information is integrated with customer profile information of the customer provided by a second tier of the multiple tiers. Billing information is generated based on the usage information, the customer profile information, and rate information for the service. A bill based on the generated billing information is transmitted to the customer either using paper mail or by electronic bill presentment. Payments received are processed and allocated based on the payment information.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for forming a uniform protective outer coating of pyrolytic graphite on a graphite chuck which is used for supporting a started filament in the manufacture of carbon free polycrystalline silicon.