Carbon Black Morphology: I. Particle Microstructure. II. Automated EM Analysis of Aggregate Size and Shape

Abstract

Abstract Carbon black particle and aggregate microstructure were studied in detail by means of high resolution electron microscopy. Improved instrumental and environmental conditions have enabled more detailed studies on the size, orientation, and spacing of graphite layers in carbon black particles than heretofore possible. The layers form continuous networks about particle growth centers and between adjoining particles and show a paracrystalline orientation rather than individual crystallites. Based on this type of orientation carbon black primary aggregates are now defined as single graphite paracrystals exhibiting either a fibrous (furnace and channel blacks) or spheroidal (thermal blacks) shape.