Beeswax
$40,000.00 Original price was: $40,000.00.$37,120.00Current price is: $37,120.00.
Beeswax is a natural substance produced by honeybees. It is a waxy material secreted by worker bees and used to build the walls and cells of honeycombs in the beehive. Beeswax is typically a yellowish-brown or white solid that has a distinctive honey-like scent. It consists primarily of esters, fatty acids, and hydrocarbons.
In addition to its role in constructing the hive, beeswax has various practical applications outside the hive. It is commonly used in the production of candles, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and as a coating for certain food items. Beeswax is valued for its versatility, as it provides a natural and renewable ingredient with properties such as moisture resistance, flexibility, and a slow-burning nature.
Beeswax Uses
Candle Making:
Beeswax is highly valued in candle production due to its natural and pleasant aroma, slow-burning properties, and clean-burning characteristics. It produces a warm, golden flame and does not emit harmful toxins when burned.
Cosmetics and Skincare Products:
Beeswax is used in the formulation of various cosmetic and skincare products such as lip balms, lotions, creams, salves, and ointments. It helps to moisturize, protect, and soothe the skin, while also providing a natural emulsifier and thickening agent.
Food Preservation and Packaging:
Beeswax can be used as a natural food preservative and coating. It is applied to the surface of certain cheeses, fruits, and vegetables to extend their shelf life and provide a protective barrier against moisture and contaminants. Beeswax wraps are also popular as an eco-friendly alternative to plastic wrap for food storage.
Woodworking and Furniture Polishing:
Beeswax is used as a natural wood finish and polish for furniture, wooden utensils, and musical instruments. It enhances the appearance of the wood, provides a protective layer, and imparts a smooth, lustrous finish.
Art and Craft Supplies:
Beeswax is utilized in various artistic mediums, such as encaustic painting, where it is mixed with pigments and applied as a heated wax-based paint. It is also used in the creation of sculptures, modeling, and batik (fabric dyeing) techniques.
Leatherworking:
Beeswax is commonly used to condition and waterproof leather goods such as shoes, bags, belts, and saddles. It helps to soften the leather, improve its durability, and protect it from moisture.
Musical Instruments:
Beeswax is applied to various parts of musical instruments, such as the tuning pegs of violins and other string instruments, to facilitate smooth movement and reduce friction.
APPEARANCE |
WAXY – (Soft, malleable solids e.g., paraffin wax) |
---|---|
AVAILABLE GRADES |
COSMETIC GRADE ,FOOD GRADE |
1. Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name: Beeswax (predominantly esters of fatty acids and alcohols)
- CAS Number: 8006-40-4 (yellow beeswax), 8012-89-3 (white beeswax)
- HS Code: 1521.90 (Natural waxes, whether or not refined)
- Molecular Formula: Complex mixture (e.g., C₁₅H₃₁COOC₃₀H₆₁ for myricyl palmitate)
- Synonyms:
- Cera flava (yellow)
- White wax (bleached)
- Apis mellifera wax
2. Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: Solid (crystalline at room temp)
- Color & Odor:
- Yellow: Deep yellow to brown; honey-like aroma
- White: Pale yellow to white; milder odor
- Melting Point: 62-65°C (yellow), 61-63°C (white)
- Acid Value: 17-24 mg KOH/g
- Saponification Value: 85-100 mg KOH/g
- Ester Value: 70-80 mg KOH/g
- Solubility:
- Soluble in chloroform, oils, warm ethanol
- Insoluble in water
- Density: 0.95-0.97 g/cm³
- Refractive Index: 1.44-1.45 (at 75°C)
3. Safety & Hazard Attributes
- GHS Classification: Non-hazardous
- NFPA Ratings:
- Health: 0| Flammability: 1 | Reactivity: 0
- Flash Point: 204°C (COC)
- Allergen Potential: Low (rare cases of contact dermatitis)
4. Storage & Handling
- Conditions:
- Cool (<25°C), dry place in airtight containers
- Protect from light (prevents oxidation)
- Shelf Life: Indefinite if stored properly
- Special Notes:
- Melt using double boiler (<85°C to prevent darkening)
5. Regulatory Compliance
- FDA:
- GRAS (21 CFR 184.1973) for food coatings
- Approved for cosmetics (21 CFR 184.1979)
- EU:
- Compliant with EC No 1223/2009 (cosmetics)
- E901 (food additive)
- Religious Certifications: Kosher, Halal available
8. Sustainability Factors
- Biodegradability: 100% (OECD 301B)
- Carbon Footprint: 0.8 kg CO₂eq/kg (apiary-to-processed)
- Adulteration Tests:
- Drop Point: Pure beeswax melts sharply at 62-65°C
- CEROL Test: Detects paraffin (turbidity in ethanol)
Personal Protection:
- Gloves:Food-grade or nitrile gloves (prevents irritation from hot wax)
- Eye Protection:Safety goggles (if melting to prevent splashes)
- Respiratory Protection:Not usually needed at room temperature; dust mask (N95) recommended when sanding/carving
- Clothing:Apron or long sleeves (to protect from hot wax)
Handling & Storage:
- Temperature Control:Store below 40°C (104°F) to prevent softening/melting
- Ventilation:Ensure airflow when melting (avoid inhaling fumes)
- Fire Safety:Keep away from open flames (combustible when melted)
- Hygiene:Wash hands after handling (natural product but may contain residues)
Incompatibilities:
- Strong oxidizers(e.g., hydrogen peroxide) → May cause reactions
- High heat(> 150°C/302°F) → Can produce acrid smoke
Skin Contact (Hot Wax):
- Immediately cool with cold running water(do not scrape wax off while hot)
- Once hardened, gently peel off
- Apply aloe vera or burn creamif irritated
Eye Contact:
- Rinse with lukewarm water for 15+ minutes(hold eyelids open)
- Seek medical help if irritation persists
Inhalation (Smoke/Fumes):
- Move to fresh air
- Seek medical attention if coughing/breathing difficulty occurs
Ingestion:
- Non-toxic in small amounts; drink water
- Seek medical advice only if large amountsare swallowed
Fire Hazards:
- Combustible when melted(not highly flammable)
- Smoke may contain irritants(avoid breathing)
Extinguishing Media:
- Small fires:CO₂, dry chemical, or foam
- Large fires:Water spray (avoid jets to prevent splatter)
Firefighter Protection:
- SCBA (self-contained breathing apparatus)if heavy smoke
- Standard protective gear
Special Notes:
- Do notuse water jets on hot wax (may spread fire)
- Cool containers exposed to flames
Solid Beeswax:
- Scrape up with a putty knife or stiff card
- Dispose in regular trash
Melted Beeswax:
- Let harden, then scrape up
- Use paper towelsfor residue (avoid drains)
Disposal:
- Follow local organic waste regulations
Storage & Handling Tips
✅ Store in a cool, dark place (prevents melting/discoloration)
✅ Keep away from direct sunlight (may soften)
✅ Use airtight containers (prevents dust absorption)
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Properties
- Appearance: It comes in flakes or powder and is typically light yellow to brownish in color.
- Melting Point: It has a high melting point of about 82-86°C (180-187°F), making it one of the hardest natural waxes.
- Composition: It is composed of esters, fatty acids, and alcohols, which contribute to its hardness and water-resistant properties.