A heat transfer composite including a plurality of pyrolytic graphite parts and a on-carbonaceous matrix holding the pyrolytic graphite parts in a consolidated mass. In one embodiment, the heat transfer composite includes a quantity of pyrolytic graphite parts randomly distributed in the non-carbonaceous matrix. In another embodiment, the heat transfer composite includes distinct layers of pyrolytic graphite parts disposed in between the layers of sheets comprising non-carbonaceous materials. In still another embodiment, the heat transfer composite comprises a substrate containing at least one non-carbonaceous matrix containing at least one pyrolytic graphite part in a consolidated mass. The matrix is affixed to the substrate for conveying heat away from a heat source.