Carbon black is a finely dispersed product generated by incomplete combustion or thermal degradation of hydrocarbons contained in natural and commercial gases, as well as in petroleum and coal-tar oil. Carbon black contains no less than 90 per cent of carbon.

Carbon black is used as a filler in rubber and plastic materials to modify mechanical, electrical and optical properties of elastomeric material. Tire and industrial rubber manufacturers are the key consumers of carbon black (about 90 per cent of its total consumption). It is also used to manufacture carbon electrodes, varnish paints and in printing industry.