What is the Difference Between Acetylene Black and Carbon Black?

The main difference between acetylene black and carbon black lies in their production process and properties. Here are the key differences:

1. Production Process: Acetylene black is obtained from the thermal decomposition of acetylene, while carbon black is produced from the incomplete combustion of heavy petroleum compounds.
2. Structure: Due to the production process, acetylene blacks have a high structure, making them difficult to densify and impossible to pelletize. Carbon black, on the other hand, has a different structure depending on the production method used, such as furnace black, thermal black, or lamp black.
3. Electrical and Thermal Conductivity: Acetylene black has a very high thermal and electrical conductivity, which makes it primarily suitable for use in electric cells, antistatic rubber and plastic applications, and cable manufacturing. Carbon black has a lower conductivity and is used for various purposes, including pigments, reinforcement, and coloring.
4. Purity: Acetylene black is a high-purity carbon black. Carbon black's purity varies depending on the production method and source material.
5. Specific Surface Area: Acetylene black has a large specific surface area and strong adsorption properties. Carbon black's specific surface area varies depending on the type and production method.

In summary, acetylene black and carbon black differ in their production processes, structures, electrical and thermal conductivities, purity, and specific surface areas. While acetylene black is primarily used for its conductive properties, carbon black has a wider range of applications due to its varying properties.

Comparative Table: Acetylene Black vs Carbon Black

Acetylene black and carbon black are both types of carbon black, but they have different properties and applications. Here is a table comparing the differences between acetylene black and carbon black:

Acetylene black is a type of carbon black that is obtained from the thermal decomposition of acetylene, while carbon black is produced from the incomplete combustion of heavy petroleum compounds, coal tar, vegetable matter, or petroleum products. Acetylene black has a large specific surface area and is highly conductive, making it suitable for applications such as electrical conductivity, thermal conductivity, and anti-static. In contrast, carbon black has a smaller specific surface area and is less conductive, making it ideal for use in paints, coatings, inks, and plastics for color, UV protection, and conductivity.