What are ASX graphite stocks?ASX graphite stocks are shares in companies involved in the production and refinement of graphite. They include junior companies with projects in development, larger companies with operational mine sites that already produce graphite, and vertically integrated companies that supply battery-grade graphite to the electric vehicle (EV) industry.Along with coal and diamonds, graphite is one of three naturally occurring types of carbon. China produces about 80% of the world's mined graphite. Other nations with reasonably large quantities are Brazil, Mozambique, and Russia.Making synthetic graphite by superheating other carbon substances (like coal or oil) is also possible. ASX graphite company Novonix Ltd (ASX: NVX) owns a plant in Tennessee in the United States that produces synthetic graphite. The company claims it is superior to natural graphite as it helps create longer-lasting batteries.Graphite has been in the news recently, with China (the world's largest graphite producer) announcing it was tightening export controls. The government argued this was for national security reasons to protect its EV manufacturing industry.However, this could disrupt the global supply chain for graphite, driving up prices. This then provides a unique opportunity for junior players to expand to fill the gap left by Chinese producers.Why invest in them?Well, as we've just mentioned, current events could make the near-term an exciting (but uncertain) time for the graphite industry. Export controls placed on Chinese producers could limit the global supply, presenting an opportunity for smaller graphite producers.Graphite has a diverse range of applications. Traditionally, we have used it in everything from pencils to lubricants to steelmaking and glass production. However, graphite's use in cutting-edge technologies makes investors most excited.Graphite is a crucial component in the lithium-ion batteries that power EVs and popular electronic devices, including smartphones. Kilogram for kilogram, more graphite is required to build a lithium-ion battery than lithium!Graphite is very good at conducting electricity. It reduces battery charging times and increases the amount of electricity a battery can store (a property known as 'energy density').With demand for EVs, smartphones and other battery-powered electronics expected to continue to rise over the coming decades, many investors feel bullish about the graphite industry prospects. It's a great reason to add ASX graphite shares to your investment portfolio! This is what I was trying to post but the link blocked me.
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