Microcrystalline Wax

 

Microcrystalline Wax Definition

Microcrystalline wax is a refined mixture of solid, saturated hydrocarbons, mainly branched paraffin, obtained from petroleum. In contrast to paraffins, microcrystalline waxes may vary widely in character depending on the crude-oil source and the method and degree of refinement. Some are ductile, like beeswax; others are hard and brittle; and still others crumble easily during handling. Microcrystalline waxes may be made from the residue of crude petroleum by refining; or they may be made from petroleum jelly by removing the oil with a solvent. Their physical properties may be controlled by the temperature of the solvents. Methods of separation include solvent dilution, chilling, centrifuging, filtering, and various combinations of these Chemically, microcrystalline waxes consist of saturated aliphatic hydrocarbons. Microcrystalline wax is a type of wax derived from petroleum, characterized by its fine crystalline structure. It is often used in various industries, including cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food processing, for its properties such as flexibility, moisture resistance, and ability to form a protective barrier.

Microcrystalline Wax Applications

Microcrystalline wax, due to its unique properties, finds numerous applications in various industries:

• Cosmetics: Used in lipsticks, lip balms, creams, and lotions for its emollient properties and ability to provide a smooth texture.
• Pharmaceuticals: Employed as a coating for tablets and capsules to facilitate swallowing and protect against moisture and degradation.
• Food Processing: Used as a glazing agent for fruits and vegetables to enhance appearance and extend shelf life, as well as in food packaging for moisture resistance.
• Candles: Often blended with other waxes to enhance burning characteristics, such as burn time and fragrance retention.
• Polishes and Coatings: Utilized in furniture polish, shoe polish, and automotive wax for its ability to provide a glossy finish and protect surfaces from moisture and scratches.
• Rubber and Plastics: Acts as a lubricant, release agent, and plasticizer in the manufacturing process of rubber and plastic products.
• Paper and Printing: Used as a coating agent for glossy paper and cardboard to improve surface smoothness, printability, and water resistance.
• Electrical Insulation: Incorporated into electrical wires and cables to provide insulation and moisture resistance, particularly in harsh environments.
• Adhesives: Serves as a component in adhesive formulations to improve adhesion and flexibility.
• Textiles: Applied in textile processing to provide water repellency, fabric conditioning, and as a lubricant in sewing thread manufacturing.

These applications demonstrate the versatility and importance of microcrystalline wax across a wide range of industries.

 

Petroleum Wax Characteristics

Microcrystalline wax exhibits several key characteristics that make it suitable for various applications:

• Fine Crystalline Structure: Unlike paraffin wax, microcrystalline wax has a finer crystalline structure, which gives it a smoother texture and better binding properties.
• Flexibility: Microcrystalline wax is more pliable and flexible compared to other waxes, making it suitable for applications where flexibility is important, such as in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals.
• Moisture Resistance: It has excellent moisture resistance properties, making it ideal for use in products that need to withstand moisture, such as food packaging and pharmaceutical coatings.
• Adhesive Properties: Microcrystalline wax has adhesive properties, which make it useful in various adhesive formulations and as a binding agent in certain applications.
• High Melting Point: It typically has a higher melting point compared to paraffin wax, which makes it more heat-resistant and suitable for applications where higher temperatures are involved, such as in candles and polishes.
• Opaque Appearance: Microcrystalline wax is usually opaque or translucent, giving it a creamy appearance, which is desirable in many cosmetic and pharmaceutical products.
• Compatibility: It is compatible with a wide range of other materials, including oils, resins, and polymers, allowing for easy formulation in various products.

• Insoluble in water
• very slightly soluble in ethanol
• sparingly soluble in diethyl ether and hexane
• Melting Range : 62-102°C
• Viscosity @ 100°C : Not less than 11 cSt.
• Sulfur : Not more than 0.4%
• Arsenic : Not more than 3 mg/kg

 

Comparison Table of MICROCRYSTALLINE WAX & PARAFFIN WAX

 

 

Certificate of Analysis (COA) White Micro Crystalline Wax -MCR 100

 

CERTIFICATE OF ANALYSIS MICRO CRYSTALLINE WAX (COA) (2)