Beeswax

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Beeswax is a natural wax produced by honeybees of the genus Apis. It is secreted by worker bees from specialized glands and used to build honeycomb cells. Beeswax is a complex mixture of esters, fatty acids, and hydrocarbons, characterized by a pale yellow to brown color, a pleasant honey-like aroma, and a firm yet pliable texture. It has excellent emulsifying, binding, and protective properties, making it widely used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, food, and industrial applications. Beeswax is prized for its natural origin, biodegradability, and skin-friendly characteristics.

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Categories: Emollients, Emulsifiers, Excipients, Humectants, Nutraceutical Ingredients (pharmaceutical), Thickeners Tags: Candle making, Natural wax, Pharmaceutical excipient, Skincare ingredient, Soap making, Yellow beeswax

Description

Table of Contents

Primary Uses

Cosmetics & Personal Care:
Used extensively in lip balms, lotions, creams, and ointments for its moisturizing, thickening, and protective qualities. Acts as an emulsifier and stabilizer in formulations.
Pharmaceuticals:
Utilized as a base or excipient in ointments, salves, and topical medications. Provides controlled release properties and improves texture.
Food Industry:
Employed as a glazing agent or coating for candies, chocolates, and fruits to prevent moisture loss and improve appearance. Also used in food-grade packaging coatings.
Candle Making:
Traditional material for high-quality, slow-burning, clean-burning candles with natural scent.
Polishes & Lubricants:
Used in shoe polishes, furniture waxes, and car waxes for protective coatings and shine enhancement.
Beekeeping & Agriculture:
Applied in making foundation sheets for beehives and protective coatings for horticultural products.

Secondary Uses

Arts & Crafts:
Used in encaustic painting (wax painting) and modeling due to its malleability and texture.
Pharmaceutical Capsules:
Incorporated as a coating material for capsules and tablets.
Waterproofing:
Used in leather and fabric waterproofing treatments.
Textile Industry:
Utilized as a sizing agent in yarn processing and finishing.
Dental Industry:
Occasionally used in dental molds and impressions due to its pliability and biocompatibility.

PRODUCT KEY FEATURES

Basic Identification Attributes

Chemical Name (IUPAC): Mixture of esters of fatty acids and long-chain alcohols
Common/Trade Name: Beeswax
CAS Number: 8012-89-3
HS Code: 1521.00.00
Molecular Formula: Complex mixture; main components include C15–C36 hydrocarbons, esters, and acids
Synonyms: Cera Alba, Honey wax

Physical & Chemical Properties

Physical State: Solid wax at room temperature
Color & Odor: Pale yellow to brown; characteristic mild honey aroma
Melting Point: 62–65°C
Density: ~0.958 g/cm³
Solubility: Insoluble in water; soluble in organic solvents like ether, chloroform, and benzene
Texture: Firm but pliable, slightly tacky to touch
Flash Point: Approximately 204°C
Stability: Stable under normal conditions, prone to oxidation with prolonged exposure to air/light

Safety & Hazard Attributes

Hazard Class (GHS): Not classified as hazardous
NFPA Ratings: Health 0, Flammability 2, Reactivity 0
Exposure Limits: No specific occupational exposure limits; non-toxic
Reactivity: Chemically stable; avoid strong oxidizing agents and high heat
Incompatibilities: Strong oxidizers, prolonged exposure to UV light

Storage & Handling Attributes

Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight and heat sources
Container Type: Sealed containers, preferably airtight to prevent contamination and oxidation
Shelf Life: Several years if stored properly
Special Handling: Avoid inhalation of fumes when melting; use appropriate protective gloves to avoid burns

Regulatory & Compliance Attributes

Regulatory Status: Generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by FDA for food use
Transportation: Not classified as hazardous material
Waste Disposal: Dispose of according to local regulations; biodegradable and environmentally friendly

Environmental & Health Impact

Ecotoxicity: Low toxicity; biodegradable and environmentally safe
Persistence: Biodegradable over time in natural conditions
Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: No evidence of carcinogenic or mutagenic effects
Biodegradability: Readily biodegradable

SAFETY HANDLING PRECAUTIONS

Safety Handling Precautions

PPE: Use gloves and safety glasses when handling hot beeswax to prevent burns.
Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation when melting beeswax to avoid inhaling vapors.
Fire Safety: Beeswax is flammable; keep away from open flames and heat sources. Have fire extinguishing media ready (foam or dry chemical).
Handling: Avoid prolonged skin contact with molten wax to prevent burns.
Hygiene: Wash hands after handling; avoid ingestion or inhalation of fumes.

First Aid Measures

Inhalation: Move to fresh air if vapors are inhaled; seek medical attention if respiratory symptoms occur.
Skin Contact: Cool affected area with cold water if burned by hot wax; seek medical treatment for severe burns.
Eye Contact: Rinse eyes with water thoroughly; seek medical attention if irritation persists.
Ingestion: Unlikely route; rinse mouth and seek medical advice if swallowed in significant quantities.

Firefighting Measures

Fire Hazards: Beeswax is combustible and can catch fire from open flames or sparks.
Extinguishing Media: Use foam, dry chemical powder, or CO₂ extinguishers. Avoid water jets which may spread burning wax.
Special Precautions: Firefighters should wear protective gear and breathing apparatus in case of smoke inhalation risk.
Preventive Actions: Store away from ignition sources; avoid accumulation of wax dust to reduce fire hazard.