EPA promulgated the Carbon Black Manufacturing Effluent Guidelines and Standards (40 CFR Part 458) in 1976 and 1978. The regulation covers directdirect dischargerA point source that discharges pollutants to waters of the United States, such as streams, lakes, or oceans. and indirectindirect dischargerA facility that discharges pollutants to a publicly owned treatment works (municipal sewage treatment plant). dischargers. The Effluent Guidelines and Standards are incorporated into NPDES permits for direct dischargers, and permits or other control mechanisms for indirect dischargers (see Pretreatment Program).

• What is the Carbon Black Manufacturing Industry?
• Pollutants and Subcategories
• Rulemaking History
• Additional Information

What is the Carbon Black Manufacturing Industry?

Carbon black is derived from petrochemicals, and is an important family of industrial carbons used primarily as reinforcing agents in rubber and as black pigments in inks, coatings and plastics.

Carbon black manufacturing is included within NAICS group 325182. The NAICS listing is provided as a guide and does not define the coverage of the Carbon Black Manufacturing category. For precise definitions of coverage, see the applicability sections in 40 CFR Part 458.

Pollutants and Subcategories

Regulated Pollutants

• Direct dischargers: No discharge of process wastewater
• Indirect dischargers: Oil and grease

Regulation Subcategories

Rulemaking History

1978 Amendment

• Documents, including:
  • Final Rule (January 9, 1978)
  • Proposed Rule (May 18, 1976)

1976 Initial Rulemaking

• Documents, including:
  • Interim Final Rule (May 18, 1976)
  • Development Document (April 1976)

Additional Information

For additional information regarding Carbon Black Manufacturing Effluent Guidelines, please contact Doruntine Rexhepi (rexhepi.doruntine@epa.gov) or 202-566-2532.

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