Difference between revisions of "Paraffin wax"

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(Paraffin wax)
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Revision as of 11:35, 2 August 2016

Description

Paraffin wax is the most widely used commercial wax. It is mainly derived from the high-boiling fractions of petroleum. It is commonly sold in slabs or blocks which exhibit crystallinity and various degrees of translucency. There is often a difference in melting point between the outside and inside of a slab because of nonhomogeneity. The crude paraffin waxes, containing varying amounts of volatile ingredients, are odorous and greasy. The refined grades are tasteless, odorless, harder and less greasy[1].

Properties

Melting Point (ASTM) 50 - 51 ºC
Color (Saybolt) 25 - 30
Flash Point 202 ºC
Penetration at 0 ºC 16
Penetration at 25 ºC 22
Penetration at 46 ºC 221
Saponification Number 0
Acid Number 0
Viscosity at 100 ºC 39
Structure Crystalline
Specific Gravity 0.880 - 0.915

[2]

Solubility

Soluble in: benzol, ether, chloroform, carbon disulfide, carbon tetrachloride, turpentine, petroleum, fixed oils. Insoluble in: water, cold alcohol[3].

Uses

Candles; waterproofing; sealing; lubricating; food; plant; fruit and vegetable protection; paper; polishes; cosmetics; crayons; pharmaceutical ointments and salves; electrical insulation, etc. [4]

References

  1. Bennett, H., Commercial Waxes, Second edition, p. 17
  2. Bennett, H., Commercial Waxes, Second edition, p. 18
  3. Bennett, H., Commercial Waxes, Second edition, p. 18
  4. Bennett, H., Commercial Waxes, Second edition, p. 18