When compared to alternative dry lubricant options, graphitic powders hold up well. Graphite is not necessarily the best choice for every application, but it is widely used because the powder is a wide choice in many situations. There are a couple of main alternative dry lubricants.
Molybdenum disulfide works in a vacuum, which graphite powder does not. This makes the alternative better in a few uncommon applications, but graphite is a more practical option for most needs. Additionally, molybdenum disulfide is much more prone to corrosion than graphite powder - a major consideration for many businesses.
Boron nitride has even better temperature resistance, proving effective at temperatures well above 1,000 °C. Such thermal resistance is very rarely needed, however, and graphite powder is a much more available and practical solution.
