CARBON BLACK TYPING
CARBON BLACK TYPING
Carbon black is of various types which differ in their physical and chemical properties. Carbon black typing is used to classify these types of carbon black based on factors such as their particle size, structure, and surface area. This information is essential for selecting the appropriate carbon black type for specific industrial applications, as different types of carbon black can have vastly different properties and performance characteristics.
The process of Carbon Black Testing/Carbon Black Typing (TEM) is accomplished by first pyrolyzing the elastomer in the absence of air under high pressure. The ash and carbon black are left behind while all of the rubber, lubricants and other volatile chemical compounds are removed. The ash/black mixture can then be processed with various acids to further separate the carbon black if a significant quantity of inorganic filler, such as silica or calcium carbonate, is present.
Then, using validated computer software, the main particle sizes of the individual carbon black particles within the agglomerates are determined. Next, the typical particle size and dispersion are examined and contrasted with recognized benchmarks. Then, based on this comparison, an assessment of the overall type of carbon black is made and given. (N100, N200, etc.). In many situations, it is also possible to tell if a mixture of carbon blacks is present.
The most common carbon black types are:
- Channel black: This is a type of carbon black with relatively high particle size and low surface area.
- Furnace black: This is a type of carbon black with a smaller particle size and higher surface area than channel black.
- Thermal black: This is a type of carbon black produced by heating natural gas to high temperatures. It has a higher particle size and lower surface area than furnace black.
In conclusion, carbon black typing is a process used to classify different types of carbon black based on their physical and chemical properties. This information is essential for selecting the appropriate carbon black type for specific industrial applications, as different types of carbon black can have vastly different properties and performance characteristics.
