Abstract

Carbon Black is produced by Channel Process, Thermal Process and Furnace Process. Our Rantau Plant in Pertamina Unit-I uses associated gas to produce channel black by the Channel Process, where the carbon black is collected by impingement of small flames on a relatively cool metal surface of the channel irons. The success of this process depends on the ability to produce the smallest particle size and the superior chemistry properties:

The second method of producing carbon black is the Thermal Process, where natural gas is decomposed thermally in an intermittent operation.

The main method of carbon black manufacturing is the Furnace Process. In this process we can use natural gas or oil as the feed, but today oil has nearly eliminated natural gas as furnace feed stock.

The three fundamental carbon properties are particle diameter (surface area), pH (surface chemistry) and structure (persistence of chain or network habit).

The size of the individual particle together with the surface chemistry of the particle plus the number of particle to which it is attached in a chain-like structure, determine the properties and uses of carbon black.

Commercial carbon blacks are divided into two broad categories according to the use in rubber or non rubber application.

Approximately 90% of all carbon black produced is used in the reinforcement of rubber goods, because of its excellent reinforcing effect. This case brings the production of carbon black parallel with the production of tires. The rest is used in the ink, paint, plastic, paper and electrical conductive industries.