Paraffin Wax

Brief Overview

Paraffin wax is a soft, colorless or white, odorless solid derived from petroleum, coal, or shale oil. It consists primarily of saturated hydrocarbons (alkanes) with a typical melting point range of 46–68°C (115–154°F). Known for its hydrophobic and low-reactivity properties, paraffin wax is widely used across various industries.

In addition to its role in the polymer industry, paraffin wax is commonly used in candles, cosmetics, packaging, and coatings. Its applications extend to serving as a moisture barrier, lubricant, and thermal insulator. Due to its versatility and cost-effectiveness, paraffin wax remains a critical material in both industrial and consumer products.

Manufacturing Process

Paraffin wax is extracted from crude oil, from which paraffin-rich fractions are separated during the refining process. These fractions undergo vacuum distillation to isolate heavier hydrocarbons. The resulting slack wax, which contains oil and wax, is then subjected to solvent dewaxing using solvents like methyl ethyl ketone (MEK) to separate the wax from the oil. The crude wax is further refined through sweating (controlled heating to remove oil) and hydrotreatment or bleaching to improve color, odor, and purity. The final product is molded into blocks, granules, or liquid forms for various industrial applications.

Processing Aid:
Paraffin wax is used as a lubricant in the extrusion and molding of thermoplastics like PVC. It reduces friction during processing, improving material flow and preventing sticking in molds or extrusion dies.

Plasticizer:
In some polymer formulations, paraffin wax acts as a plasticizer, enhancing flexibility and reducing brittleness, particularly in polyethylene-based materials.

Moisture Barrier:
Paraffin wax is used as a coating for polymer films and surfaces to improve water and moisture resistance, commonly seen in food packaging and agricultural films.

Release Agent:
It serves as a release agent in polymer molding processes, preventing the polymer from adhering to the mold and ensuring smooth removal of the final product.

Additive for Wax-Modified Polymers:
Paraffin wax is added to improve specific properties, such as surface gloss, smoothness, and resistance to environmental factors, in products like candles, adhesives, and coatings.

Thermal Stabilizer:
In applications involving high temperatures, paraffin wax provides thermal insulation and protects the polymer from degradation.

Modifier for Bitumen-Polymer Blends:
Paraffin wax is used in modifying bitumen-polymer blends for road construction, enhancing flexibility and reducing temperature susceptibility.