Carbon black is a material produced by the incomplete combustion of petroleum products. Carbon black has an extremely high surface area to volume ratio, and as such it is one of the first nanomaterials to find common use. It is similar to soot but with a much higher surface area to volume ratio. Carbon black is often used as a pigment and reinforcement in rubber and plastic products.

Common Uses

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The most common useage of carbon black is as a pigment and reinforcing phase in automobile tires. Carbon black also helps conduct heat away from the tread and belt area of the tire, reducing thermal damage and increasing tire life.

Carbon black particles are also employed in some radar absorbent materials.

Carbon black is known to be carcinogenic and harmful to the respiratory tract if inhaled.

Pigments | Carbon | Rubber properties | Elastomers