Carbon black is a highly engineered additive in the plastics industry, serving three primary functions: pigmentation for deep black coloration, UV stabilization for outdoor durability, and electrical conductivity for specialized applications. The particle size, structure, and surface chemistry of carbon black determine its performance in plastic compounds and masterbatches.
Carbon black masterbatches are concentrated dispersions (typically 40-50% loading) used by plastics processors to color and protect finished plastic products. Masterbatch form ensures uniform dispersion and dust-free handling.
Recommended Products: N220, N330, N550, Specialty Masterbatch Grades
Polyolefin pipes (HDPE, PP) used outdoors require carbon black for UV stabilization. A minimum of 2-2.5% well-dispersed carbon black provides decades of UV resistance for water, gas, and telecommunications conduit.
Recommended Products: N220, N330, Specialty Pipe Grades
Greenhouse films, mulch films, and silage covers incorporate carbon black for UV protection, thermal properties, and opacity control.
Recommended Products: N220, N330, N550
Interior components (dashboards, door panels, trim) and exterior parts (bumpers, mirror housings) use carbon black for consistent black coloration and UV resistance.
Recommended Products: N220, N330, Specialty Automotive Grades
Carbon black provides opacity, UV barrier properties, and aesthetic black coloration for food containers, cosmetic packaging, and industrial pails.
Recommended Products: N330, N550, Food-Contact Compliant Grades
Carbon black is incorporated into synthetic fibers (polyester, nylon, polypropylene) for UV resistance, electrical conductivity, and deep black coloration in carpets, apparel, and industrial textiles.
Recommended Products: N220, N330, Fiber-Grade Specialty Blacks
Consumer goods, appliance components, and industrial parts use carbon black for color consistency, UV stability, and improved mechanical properties.
Recommended Products: N330, N550, N660
Bottles, drums, and tanks use carbon black for opacity, UV protection of contents, and aesthetic appearance.
Recommended Products: N330, N550
Grade |
Particle Size (nm) |
NSA (m²/g) |
DBP (cm³/100g) |
Tint Strength (%) |
Primary Application |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
N220
|
20 – 25
|
110 – 125
|
114
|
115
|
Pipe, high-performance films
|
N330
|
26 – 30
|
75 – 85
|
102
|
103
|
General purpose plastics
|
N550
|
40 – 48
|
39 – 45
|
121
|
—
|
Masterbatch, extrusion
|
N660
|
49 – 60
|
30 – 40
|
90
|
—
|
Cost-effective masterbatch
|
Specialty Pipe Grade
|
20 – 30
|
100 – 120
|
100 – 120
|
105 – 115
|
HDPE pipe (UV stabilization)
|
High Jetness Grade
|
10 – 20
|
200 – 500
|
100 – 150
|
120 – 140
|
Premium black coloration
|
First Digit |
Classification |
Particle Size Range (nm) |
Typical Application |
|---|---|---|---|
1
|
SAF (Super Abrasion Furnace)
|
11 – 19
|
Premium treads
|
2
|
ISAF (Intermediate Super Abrasion Furnace)
|
20 – 25
|
Tyre treads
|
3
|
HAF (High Abrasion Furnace)
|
26 – 30
|
General purpose rubber
|
4 – 5
|
FF (Fine Furnace)
|
31 – 48
|
Mechanical goods
|
6
|
GPF (General Purpose Furnace)
|
49 – 60
|
Carcass, industrial rubber
|
7
|
SRF (Semi-Reinforcing Furnace)
|
61 – 100
|
Gaskets, seals
|
8
|
FEF (Fine Extrusion Furnace)
|
40 – 48
|
Extruded profiles
|
9
|
MT (Medium Thermal)
|
250 – 350
|
High loading compounds
|
Second Digit: Structure Level (0-3 = Low, 4-7 = Medium, 8-9 = High)
Factor |
Impact on UV Protection |
|---|---|
Particle Size
|
Smaller particles provide better UV absorption per unit weight
|
Dispersion Quality
|
Poor dispersion creates weak points for UV degradation
|
Loading Level
|
Minimum 2-2.5% for long-term outdoor exposure
|
Polymer Compatibility
|
Good wetting and dispersion essential for performance
|
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