Carnauba Wax
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.
Carnauba Wax Uses
- 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.
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
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