a process for producing solid , porous graphites which provides a more uniform density gradient throughout the ultimate product . the process utilizes a pressure drop during processing in order to induce boiling and varies the processing pressure between an initial pressure which exceeds 1000 psig and a final processing pressure which generally exceeds the initial pressure . the particular processing techniques employed allow additional viscosity manipulation as well as improved density gradient characteristics in the ultimate product . the final products have bulk thermal conductivities in the range from 90 - 300 w / mk with apparent densities ranging from about 0 . 678 g / cc - 1 . 5 g / cc