Acidulants
Collectors
Dust Suppressants
Explosives and Blasting Agents
Flocculants and Coagulants
Frothers
Leaching Agents
pH Modifiers
Precious Metal Extraction Agents
Antioxidants(plastic)
Colorants (Pigments, Dyes)
Fillers and Reinforcements
Flame Retardants
Monomers
Plasticizers
Polymerization Initiators
Stabilizers (UV, Heat)
Antifoaming Agents
Chelating Agents
Coagulants and Flocculants
Corrosion Inhibitors
Disinfectants and Biocides
Oxidizing Agents
pH Adjusters
Scale Inhibitors( water)
Antioxidants(cosmetic)
Emollients
Fragrances and Essential Oils
Humectants
Preservatives
Surfactants(cosmetic)
Thickeners
UV Filters
Admixtures
Waterproofing Agents
Sealants and Adhesives
Curing Compounds
Concrete Repair Chemicals
Anti-Corrosion Coatings
Surfactants(cleaning)
Builders
Enzymes
Solvents (Cleaning)
FragrancesFULLY REFINED PARAFFIN WAX: THE HIGH-PERFORMANCE HYDROCARBON FOR DIVERSE INDUSTRIES
Fully refined paraffin wax is a highly purified, white, odorless solid hydrocarbon derived from petroleum, with a carbon chain length of C₂₀-C₄₀. With 99%+ purity and oil content below 0.5%, this premium wax serves critical functions in food packaging, cosmetics, candles, and industrial applications. The global market exceeds 4 million metric tons annually, driven by its exceptional stability and versatility.
Key Properties & Specifications
Physical & Chemical Characteristics
- Melting Point: 58-72°C (varies by grade)
- Oil Content: ≤0.5% (fully refined)
- Penetration (25°C): 10-20 dmm (ASTM D1321)
- Color: White (Saybolt +30)
- Odor: Odorless (critical for food/pharma)
Technical Grades
| Grade | Melting Range | Oil Content | Key Applications |
| Food Grade | 60-62°C | ≤0.5% | Cheese coating, gum base |
| Candle Wax | 58-60°C | ≤0.8% | Premium container candles |
| Cosmetic | 62-65°C | ≤0.3% | Lip balms, creams |
| Industrial | 66-70°C | ≤1.0% | Rubber, PVC lubricant |
Production Process
1. Feedstock Preparation
- Slack Wax: Byproduct of lubricant oil refining (10-30% oil)
- Deoiling: Solvent (MEK/toluene) or sweating process
2. Refining Steps
- Hydrotreating: Removes sulfur/nitrogen compounds
- Clay Treatment: Bleaching for color improvement
- Filtration: Final polishing
3. Quality Control
- Congealing Point (ASTM D938)
- Oil Content (ASTM D721)
- FDA Compliance: 21CFR172.886/178.3710
Major Applications
1. Food & Packaging (25% Market)
- Cheese Coating:
- 50-100μm layer prevents moisture loss
- Meets FDA 21CFR172.886
- Chewing Gum:
- 5-8% wax base improves elasticity
2. Candle Manufacturing (40%)
- Premium Candles:
- 100% paraffin or blended formulas
- Burn time: 7-10g/hour (standard wick)
- Additive Compatibility:
- Up to 10% fragrance load
3. Cosmetics & Pharma
- Lipsticks:
- 5-15% wax provides structure
- Ointments:
- USP-grade forms occlusive barrier
4. Industrial Uses
- Rubber Compounding:
- 1-3% improves mold release
- PVC Lubricant:
- 0.5-1.0phr reduces friction
- Investment Casting:
- Pattern material blends
Performance Comparison
| Parameter | Fully Refined | Semi-Refined | Microcrystalline |
| Oil Content | ≤0.5% | 0.8-2.0% | 3-8% |
| Odor | None | Slight | Moderate |
| Flexibility | Low | Medium | High |
| Price ($/ton) | 900-1,200 | 600-900 | 1,300-1,800 |
Market Dynamics
Global Production
- Top Producers:
- China (35%)
- ExxonMobil, Sasol, Shell
- Price Trends:
- Linked to crude oil +$300/ton premium
Emerging Trends
- Bio-Based Alternatives:
- Soy/carnauba wax blends
- Recycled Paraffin:
- From waste candle recovery
- High-Melt Grades:
- For tropical climate products
Safety & Compliance
✅ Non-Toxic:
- GRAS status (FDA)
- EU Food Contact Material 10/2011
⚠ Handling:
- Dust explosion risk (ST1 class)
- Melt handling >100°C requires PPE
♻ Environmental:
- Readily combustible
- Non-biodegradable but recyclable
Conclusion
Fully refined paraffin wax remains the gold standard for purity-demanding applications, from food coatings to luxury candles. As sustainability pressures grow, the industry is responding with recycling initiatives and bio-hybrid solutions while maintaining the unmatched performance of petroleum-derived paraffin.
