Paraffin Wax

Paraffin Wax Technical Details

Physical Properties
Appearance: White or colorless, translucent solid
Texture: Smooth and waxy
Odor: Odorless or faintly pleasant
Melting Point: Typically between 46°C and 68°C (115°F – 154°F)
Density: Around 0.9 g/cm³
Solubility: Insoluble in water; soluble in ether, benzene, and certain esters

Chemical Properties
Composition: Mixture of saturated hydrocarbons (alkanes), mainly C20–C40
Chemical Stability: Chemically inert and stable under normal conditions
Non-reactive: Resistant to most acids and alkalis
Flammability: Combustible (used in candles and coatings)

Functional Features
Water Resistance: Excellent barrier to moisture and humidity
Electrical Insulation: Good dielectric properties—used in insulation materials
Lubrication: Reduces friction on surfaces
Odor and Taste Neutral: Suitable for use in food and cosmetic applications
Flexibility: Can be blended with other waxes or additives to modify properties

There are main of applications of paraffin wax, in different industries such as:

Candle Industry
Primary use of paraffin wax worldwide.
Provides a clean, consistent burn and good fragrance retention.
Easily colored and molded into various shapes (pillars, votives, tealights, etc.)

Cosmetics and Personal Care
Used in creams, lip balms, lotions, and ointments.
Acts as an emollient, forming a protective layer that helps retain skin moisture.
Adds texture, smoothness, and gloss to cosmetic formulations.
Used in paraffin wax treatments for softening skin and soothing sore joints.

Food Industry
Used as a coating for fruits (like citrus), cheeses, and candies to prevent moisture loss.
Serves as a moisture and gas barrier for food packaging.
Sometimes used as a release agent or lubricant in food processing equipment (food-grade paraffin only).

Pharmaceutical Applications
Used in ointments and creams as a base or thickening agent.
Provides controlled release in some tablet coatings.
Used in dental waxes and therapeutic heat treatments.

Industrial Uses
Lubrication: Reduces friction in machinery and tools.
Electrical insulation: Acts as a dielectric material in capacitors and other components.
Corrosion protection: Coating for metals, wires, and tools to prevent rust.
Polishes and coatings: Used in floor, furniture, and car polishes for gloss and protection.
Rubber and tire manufacturing: Enhances flexibility and prevents cracking.

Packaging and Paper Industry
Used to coat paper, cardboard, and corrugated materials for water resistance.
Improves strength and durability of packaging materials.
Common in food wrappers, cups, and disposable containers.

Art, Crafts, and Education
Used in batik art (wax-resist dyeing) and crayon production.
Serves as a mold-release agent for casting and ceramics.
Used in wax modeling and sculpting due to its smooth texture.

Energy and Other Specialized Uses
Acts as a phase-change material (PCM) for thermal energy storage—absorbs and releases heat efficiently.
Used in fire logs and ignition materials.
Blended with microcrystalline wax or synthetic waxes for custom performance.

Basic Composition
Paraffin wax is primarily composed of:
Normal alkanes (CnH₂n+₂) — typically C20 to C40 hydrocarbons.
Derived from petroleum refining, coal, or shale oil.
Melting point: 46–68°C (varies by grade).

Typical Paraffin Wax Formulations by Application

1. General Storage Conditions

2. Safety Precautions

• Flammability:

  • Paraffin wax is combustible (flash point ~199°C / 390°F).

  • Keep away from open flames, sparks, and hot surfaces.

  • Avoid smoking in storage areas.

• Ventilation:

  • Ensure adequate ventilation to prevent accumulation of fumes if wax is melted nearby.

• Static Electricity:

  • Ground equipment during transfer of melted wax to prevent static discharge.

• Spill Response:

  • Allow spilled wax to solidify, then scrape and clean with a suitable solvent.

  • Avoid washing molten wax into drains.

3. Handling Guidelines

• During Melting:

  • Use temperature-controlled heating; do not exceed recommended melt point by more than 10–15°C.

  • Indirect heating (water or oil bath) is preferred over direct flame.

• Personal Protection:

  • Wear heat-resistant gloves, eye protection, and long sleeves when handling hot wax.

  • Use respiratory protection if fumes or smoke are generated during heating.

4. Shelf Life and Stability

5. Transportation Notes

• Classified as non-hazardous for transport under most regulations (UN classification: Not regulated).

• Transport in covered vehicles to protect from heat and moisture.

• Ensure containers are securely closed and upright to avoid leaks.

Paraffin Wax Packing covering different types of packaging, labeling, handling, and shipping practices for industrial and commercial use

1. Common Forms of Paraffin Wax for Packing

2. Typical Packaging Materials

3. Standard Packing Configurations

• Solid Blocks / Slabs:

  • Each block wrapped in poly film or waxed paper.

  • Packed in cartons or woven bags.

  • Typically 25 kg net per carton/bag.

• Granules / Pellets:

  • Packed in multi-layer paper bags with inner PE lining.

  • 25 kg or 50 lb net weight.

• Liquid Wax:

  • Filled hot into 200-liter steel drums or 1,000-liter IBC totes.

  • Must be sealed tightly to prevent oxidation or contamination.

4. Labeling Requirements

Each package should be clearly labeled with:

• Product name: Paraffin Wax

• Grade / Type (e.g., Fully Refined, Semi Refined, Food Grade)

• Melting point range (°C)

• Net weight and batch number

• Manufacturer’s name and contact details

• Storage and handling instructions (e.g., “Store in a cool, dry place away from heat and flames.”)

• Country of origin

• For export: HS Code (e.g., 2712.90)

5. Transportation and Handling

• Mode of Transport: Land, sea, or air (non-hazardous cargo).

• Precautions:

  • Protect from direct sunlight and rain.

  • Avoid excessive stacking pressure.

  • Keep packages upright and intact to prevent deformation.

• Temperature Control: Transport below melting point; use insulated containers for molten wax.

6. Export Packaging (for Bulk Shipments)

• Standard pack size: 25 kg per carton or bag

• Protection: Moisture-proof, heat-resistant materials

• Labeling: Must comply with GHS / export regulations

• Storage & transport: Cool, dry, well-ventilated, away from heat sources