Abstract: On the basis of elemental composition and surface functionality of carbon black，three procedures of hydrophilic modification on carbon black surface，such as oxidation，grafting and encapsulation modification are reviewed. Oxidation can be carried out in the gas or liquid phase，by anodic oxidation and by plasma oxidation. Grafting modification includes capturing，initiating and reactive grafting. Moreover，carbon black can be encapsulated by micro-emulsion polymerization and phase separating sedimentation. The wettability of carbon black to water is improved and the dispersing stability is enhanced.