Carbon black is the general term used to describe a powdery commercial form of carbon.
Carbon black is a lot like graphite.
These carbon black particles are often coated with other chemicals making them more hazardous than commercially produced pure carbon black. In the tire industry, carbon black is used to strengthen and color rubber. It is also used to color inks and leather, and to insulate electrical equipment. Most exposure to carbon black occurs when people breathe contaminated air. This type of exposure usually occurs in the workplace.