Preparation and microstructure of MCMB in silicone oil dispersion system

Mesocarbon microbeads (MCMB) were prepared by heat condensation in the retort with coal tar pitch and silicone oil as the dispersion and heat exchange medium. The influence of silicone oil on the preparation of MCMB was studied by polarized microscopy, SEM and TEM. The results showed the heating temperature and holding time had important influence on the formation of MCMB. MCMB were obtained at 350-380°C, and polarized microstructure changed, the diameter and yield increased with holding time prolonging. The building units of MCMB were molecular layer, and the structure was Brooks-Taylor type. Furthermore, optimum conditions were as follow: the heating temperature was 380°C, and the holding time was 2 h.