Abstract Carbon black is produced by the pyrolytic decomposition of a hydrocarbon feed with hot combustion gases, at least a portion of the hydrocarbon feed being introduced into the reactor at supersonic velocity. The process is preferably conducted in a vertical reactor by injecting the hydrocarbon feedstream downward into the reactor into the hot combustion gases and the reaction mass passed through the carbon black formation zone at a velocity of about 3.5 to about 11 feet per second, a temperature of about 2,400* F to about 2,500* F, and a pressure of about 15 psia to about 30 psia. Nozzels for introducing the hydrocarbon feed at supersonic velocity or a combination of supersonic and subsonic velocities are disclosed.
The process of claim 1 in which said first portion is introduced as a plurality of streams.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
17 words
The process of claim 1 in which said second portion is introduced as a plurality of streams.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
30 words
The process of claim 1 in which said oxidant is air supplied in an amount within the range of from about 240 to 450 SCF per gallon of said feed.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
50 words
The process of claim 1 in which said reaction mass is passed through said carbon black formation zone at a velocity within the range of from about 3.5 to about 11 feet per second at a temperature within the range of from about 2,400* F to about 2, 500* F.
Claim 5
Dependent Claim
16 words
The process of claim 5 in which said second portion is introduced as a single stream.
Claim 6
Dependent Claim
16 words
The process of claim 5 in which said first portion is introduced as a single stream.