Carnauba Wax

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Carnauba Wax is a natural vegetable wax obtained from the leaves of the Copernicia prunifera palm tree, native to northeastern Brazil. It appears as a hard, brittle, yellow to brownish-yellow wax with a faint, characteristic odor. Known as the “queen of waxes,” Carnauba Wax is prized for its exceptionally high melting point, glossy finish, and excellent hardness. It is a premium wax widely used in cosmetics, food, pharmaceuticals, automotive, and industrial applications as a natural, biodegradable alternative to synthetic waxes. Its film-forming, emulsifying, and protective properties make it highly versatile for use in coatings, polishes, and skincare products.

Description

Carnauba Wax Uses

  1.  Primary Uses 

Cosmetics & Personal Care

  • Used in lipsticks, lip balms, mascaras, and lotions to provide hardness, structure, and a glossy finish.

  • Acts as an emulsifier and thickening agent in creams and ointments.

  • Enhances water resistance and durability of cosmetic products.

Food Industry

  • Approved as a food additive (E903) used as a glazing agent and coating for confectionery, chewing gum, and fruits.

  • Provides a shiny, protective layer to maintain freshness and appearance.

Pharmaceuticals

  • Used as a coating agent in tablets and capsules to control release and improve appearance.

  • Serves as a base in topical ointments and salves for its emollient and protective properties.

Automotive & Industrial Applications

  • Applied in car waxes and polishes to enhance surface gloss and protect paintwork.

  • Used in floor polishes, shoe polishes, and furniture waxes for hardness and shine.

  • Incorporated in coatings and adhesives for its film-forming ability.

Secondary Uses 

Candle Making

  • Used as a hardening agent in specialty candles to increase melting point and gloss.

Textile & Leather Treatment

  • Applied as a waterproofing and polishing agent in leather care products.

Printing Industry

  • Used in inks and printing pastes to improve gloss and adhesion.
PRODUCT KEY FEATURES
  1. Basic Identification Attributes
  • Chemical Name (IUPAC): Mixture of esters of fatty acids and long-chain alcohols

  • Common/Trade Name: Carnauba Wax

  • CAS Number: 8015-86-9

  • HS Code: 1521.90.90

  • Molecular Formula: Complex natural mixture

  • Synonyms:

    • Brazil wax

    • Palm wax

    • Wax of Copernicia prunifera

 

  1. Physical & Chemical Properties
  • Physical State: Solid wax (flakes, powder, or pastilles)

  • Color & Odor: Yellow to brownish-yellow; mild characteristic odor

  • Melting Point: 82–86°C (180–187°F)

  • Boiling Point: Not applicable (decomposes before boiling)

  • Density: ~0.97 g/cm³ at 20°C

  • Solubility:

    • Insoluble in water

    • Soluble in esters, ketones, aromatic and aliphatic hydrocarbons

  • Acid Value: 5–15 mg KOH/g

  • Saponification Value: 80–100 mg KOH/g

  • Stability: Stable under normal conditions; resistant to oxidation and heat

 

  1. Safety & Hazard Attributes
  • Hazard Class (GHS): Not classified as hazardous

  • NFPA Ratings:

    • Health: 0

    • Flammability: 1 (combustible solid)

    • Reactivity: 0

  • Exposure Limits: Not established; generally regarded as safe

  • Toxicity: Non-toxic; approved for food and cosmetic use

  • Reactivity: Chemically stable; may burn if exposed to open flame

 

  1. Storage & Handling Attributes
  • Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and ignition sources

  • Container Type: Food-grade or industrial-grade sealed containers or bags

  • Shelf Life: Up to 5 years if stored properly

  • Special Handling: Use PPE when handling molten wax; avoid inhalation of fumes if heated

 

  1. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
  • FDA Status: GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) for food use (21 CFR §178.3710)

  • Food Additive Code (EU): E903

  • REACH Status: Registered

  • Transportation: Not regulated as hazardous material

  • Waste Disposal: Biodegradable; dispose according to local regulations

 

  1. Environmental & Health Impact
  • Ecotoxicity: Low environmental impact; biodegradable and non-toxic to aquatic life

  • Persistence: Readily biodegradable

  • Bioaccumulation: Not expected to bioaccumulate

  • Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Not classified as carcinogenic or mutagenic

Biodegradability: Readily biodegradable

SAFETY HANDLING PRECAUTIONS
  • Safety Handling Precautions

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

  • Heat-resistant gloves (when handling molten wax)

  • Protective eyewear

  • Lab coat or apron

Handling Measures:

  • Avoid contact with hot wax to prevent burns

  • Use adequate ventilation if heating

  • Do not mix with strong oxidizers

Storage Measures:

  • Keep container tightly sealed

  • Store away from heat and ignition sources

  • Use FIFO inventory method

Hygiene Practices:

  • Wash hands after handling

  • Do not eat, drink, or smoke while handling product

 

First Aid Measures

  • Inhalation: Move to fresh air if fumes from heating are inhaled

  • Skin Contact: Cool affected area with water if hot wax contacts skin; seek medical attention for burns

  • Eye Contact: Rinse thoroughly with water; seek medical attention if irritation persists

  • Ingestion: Non-toxic; rinse mouth and drink water; seek medical advice if large amounts ingested

 

Firefighting Measures

  • Fire Hazards: Combustible solid; may ignite at high temperature

  • Extinguishing Media: Use dry chemical, CO₂, foam, or water spray

  • Special Precautions: Firefighters should wear full protective gear and self-contained breathing apparatus

Decomposition Products: May release CO, CO₂, and hydrocarbons when burned