Black silicon carbide (Black SiC) is a ceramic material composed of silicon and carbon, characterized by its deep black color due to its unique chemical structure. It is a high-hardness, wear-resistant material commonly used in grinding wheels, abrasives, polishing powders, and high-performance refractory materials. The hardness of black silicon carbide is second only to diamond, making it an ideal choice for industrial applications.
Compared to green silicon carbide (Green SiC), black silicon carbide has slightly lower hardness but offers better thermal conductivity and chemical stability, performing excellently in high-temperature and high-wear environments.
The black color of silicon carbide is due to its high carbon content and crystalline structure. During the Acheson process, some carbon remains unreacted, forming small inclusions within the crystal lattice. This absorption of light across a wide spectrum gives black silicon carbide its characteristic dark appearance.
In contrast, green silicon carbide is produced from high-purity silica and petroleum coke but uses a slightly different manufacturing process. Green SiC contains less free carbon, which results in a greenish hue and slightly different mechanical properties.
The production of black silicon carbide involves a high-temperature chemical reaction between silica (SiO₂) and carbon. The process is precise, and the quality of raw materials directly affects the final product. Here’s a detailed overview of the steps:
Raw Material Selection
The main raw materials include:
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High-purity silica sand (SiO₂) – usually quartz
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Carbon source – typically petroleum coke or coal tar pitch
The purity of these materials influences the hardness, particle size, and overall performance of black silicon carbide.
Acheson Process
The traditional method for manufacturing black silicon carbide is the Acheson process, named after its inventor Edward Goodrich Acheson. The process involves:
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Mixing silica sand and carbon in the correct proportion.
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Forming the mixture into a briquette or pellet.
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Placing the mixture in an electric resistance furnace.
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Heating to approximately 2,000–2,500°C to initiate the chemical reaction:
SiO2+3C→SiC+2COSiO2 + 3C → SiC + 2CO
During this reaction, carbon reduces the silica to form black silicon carbide crystals.
Cooling and Crushing
After the reaction is complete, the furnace is cooled. The solidified product, known as silicon carbide mass, is then crushed, milled, and sorted into various grades, including powder, grit, and grains suitable for different industrial applications.
Optional Purification
For high-performance applications, chemical washing or acid leaching may be applied to remove residual carbon or impurities.
Properties of Black Silicon Carbide
Physical and Chemical Properties
Black silicon carbide has a Mohs hardness of 9.2–9.5, ranking just below diamond and cubic boron nitride. It demonstrates a high melting point (~2700 °C), excellent wear resistance, and outstanding chemical inertness to acids and alkalis. The sharp crystalline structure contributes to superior cutting and grinding performance.
Hardness and Durability
Due to its strong covalent bonding, black SiC maintains its mechanical integrity under heavy loads and high speeds. Black silicon carbide grinding wheels are widely used for cutting hard metals, cast iron, and non-ferrous alloys. Their longevity and consistency reduce tool wear and maintenance frequency.
Conductivity and Thermal Properties
Unlike insulating ceramics, black silicon carbide is electrically semi-conductive and has high thermal conductivity (~120 W/m·K). These properties enable effective heat dissipation in electronic, metallurgical, and refractory applications.
Advances in Black Silicon Carbide Applications: High-Performance Coatings and Wear-Resistant Components
Beyond traditional abrasive and blasting uses, black silicon carbide is increasingly applied in high-performance coatings, wear-resistant components, and advanced ceramics manufacturing.
Wear-Resistant Components
Black silicon carbide’s exceptional hardness and chemical stability make it ideal for:
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Pump seals and mechanical seals
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Bearings and sliding parts exposed to high friction
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Protective coatings for metal or ceramic surfaces
High-Temperature Coatings
Due to its high thermal conductivity and low thermal expansion, black SiC can be used in coatings for:
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Furnace linings
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Heat exchangers
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Aerospace and electronics components requiring thermal management
Integration with Additive Manufacturing
Recent research explores the use of black SiC powders in 3D printing of ceramic parts, enabling complex geometries with enhanced mechanical properties. This opens opportunities for customized industrial components with improved wear and thermal resistance.
Why this matters for procurement:
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Understanding new applications helps in sourcing higher-value grades of black silicon carbide.
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Enables evaluation of customizable particle sizes or purity levels for specific industrial processes.
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Provides insight into suppliers who can support advanced applications, not just bulk abrasives.
Where to Buy Black Silicon Carbide: Shenzhen Great Ceramics
If you’re seeking high-quality black silicon carbide (SiC) for industrial applications,We at Shenzhen Great Ceramics are a reputable supplier of a range of silicon carbide ceramic products. Our offerings include:
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Silicon Carbide Ceramic Parts & Components: Customized processing and OEM services for various SiC components. Great Ceramic
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Silicon carbide ceramic balls: Excellent wear resistance, compressive strength and fracture toughness. Great Ceramic
For more information or to place an order, visit their official website: https://great-material.com/
Applications of Black Silicon Carbide
Black Silicon Carbide Grinding Wheel
One of the most common applications is in black silicon carbide grinding wheels, used for precision grinding, lapping, and surface finishing. Their sharp edges and self-sharpening characteristics allow efficient material removal while maintaining dimensional accuracy.
Usage in Abrasives and Polishing
Black silicon carbide powder is employed in coated and bonded abrasives, polishing compounds, and blasting media. Its hardness ensures consistent surface finishes in glass, ceramics, and metal polishing.
Role in Industrial Manufacturing
Beyond abrasives, SiC serves as a key component in metallurgical processes—such as deoxidizers in steelmaking—and as a structural ceramic for high-temperature applications. Its combination of strength, conductivity, and corrosion resistance supports reliable performance in furnace linings, nozzles, and mechanical seals.
Comparison: Green vs Black Silicon Carbide
Differences in Properties
Both materials share the same SiC crystal structure but differ in purity and manufacturing processes. Green silicon carbide is produced under more controlled conditions and contains higher purity (~99%), while black silicon carbide has slightly lower purity (~97%) but greater toughness.
Performance Metrics
| Feature | Black SiC | Green SiC |
| Purity | ~97% | ~99% |
| Toughness | High | Moderate |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 9.2–9.5 | 9.4–9.6 |
| Color | Black / Dark Gray | Green / Transparent |
| Typical Use | General grinding, metallurgical | Fine grinding, precision lapping |
When to Use Each Type
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Choose Black SiC for general grinding, heavy-duty polishing, and metallurgical applications requiring toughness.
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Choose Green SiC for precision finishing, ceramics, and high-purity electronic substrates.
Silicon Carbide Grades and Sizes
Black silicon carbide is available in various forms to suit different industrial requirements:
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Powder: Fine SiC for polishing and chemical applications
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Grit: Coarse SiC for grinding and cutting
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Blasting media: Silicon carbide grains for surface preparation
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3mm black silicon carbide: Popular in small-scale blasting and abrasive applications
Choosing the Right Supplier
Key Factors in Selecting Black Silicon Carbide Suppliers
When sourcing black silicon carbide, consider:
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Consistency in particle size and purity
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Compliance with ISO and ASTM standards
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Availability of both powder and shaped products
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Competitive black silicon carbide price with quality assurance
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Technical support for customized industrial uses
Leading China Black Silicon Carbide Manufacturers
China remains the world’s leading producer, offering competitive pricing and a wide range of material grades. Reputable black silicon carbide suppliers like us at Great Ceramic offer strict quality control, advanced sintering technology, and export-grade silicon carbide abrasives to meet global industrial standards.
Why Choose Us
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Industry Expertise: Over 15 years in advanced ceramic and abrasive materials production.
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Quality Assurance: ISO and ASTM-compliant manufacturing with strict QC at every stage.
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Custom Solutions: Tailored particle sizes, grinding wheel specifications, and precision powder grades.
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Global Reach: Export-ready products for automotive, aerospace, electronics, and industrial sectors.
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Technical Support: Engineering guidance from selection to application, ensuring optimal performance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion
Black silicon carbide is a versatile, durable, and thermally conductive material essential for modern industrial applications. From grinding wheels to powder abrasives and structural components, it improves productivity and reliability. Working with a trusted supplier like us ensures you receive high-quality materials, technical support, and consistent performance in demanding environments.
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