An experimental investigation into the conversion of nuclear graphite by oxygen and carbon dioxide: Kinetics and change in pore structure

•The conversion of used nuclear-grade graphite with O2 and CO2 was investigated.•Kinetic parameters were determined covering different reaction regimes.•The pore structure resistance with a rising degree of conversion was established.•The mechanism of particle conversion was shown.•The behavior of trace elements during the gasification of graphite was determined.