Low Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAH)

Carbon black is a substantial component of most rubber goods, playing an important role in the processing of rubber compounds by delivering a variety of performance properties to the end-use product.



Actions have been taken by both regulators in the European Union (EU) and by businesses to reduce the concentration of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) in plastic or rubber parts sold in the EU after December 27, 2015. These rubber and plastic articles include a variety of consumer goods such as sporting equipment, household items, tools, clothing, footwear, and accessories, as well as toys and childcare items. 

In addition, regulations are in place or in progress in several countries to restrict the PAH content for carbon blacks used in rubber parts that come into contact with food and potable water.

In response to these changing marketplace requirements, we offer a low PAH carbon black series to not only help you comply with these new regulations, but also meet stringent performance requirements for end-use products. 

Standard Sales Specification

PAH CONTENT *

TEST METHOD

UNITS

MAX VALUE

Benzo(a)pyrene

Cabot internal test

ppm

0.25

For each of 8 PAH included in EU list

Cabot internal test

ppm

1

For sum of 18 PAH included in GSMark list**

Cabot internal test

ppm

20

* Cabot internal test method requires 48 hours toluene extraction (Soxhlet)

** For products certified after July 1, 2020, GS Mark has reduced the list of PAH to 15. Cabot will continue to report the sum of 18 PAH, which covers all GS Mark certifications.



Want to learn more about our low PAH carbon black series?