Semi-Refined Paraffin Wax For Southeastern Europe Romania, Bulgaria, Serbia, Bosnia, Ukraine, Moldavia, Slovenia, Greece, Croatia

Semi Refined Paraffin Wax

Semi Refined Paraffin Wax Definition

Semi Refined Paraffin Wax is a solid substance derived from either one of Petroleum, Coal, or Shale. It constitutes of a mixture of Hydrocarbon molecules with anywhere between twenty and forty Carbon atoms. It has a very unreactive nature. These waxes are categorized by oil content and the degree of refinement. Semi-Refined Paraffin Waxes oil Content is between 1% to 10%.

Paraffin wax was first created in 1830 by the German chemist Karl von Reichenbach when he tried to develop the means to efficiently separate and refine the waxy substances naturally occurring in petroleum. Paraffin represented a major advance in the candle making industry, because it burned more cleanly and reliably, and was cheaper to manufacture than any other candle fuel. Paraffin wax initially suffered from a low melting point; however, this shortcoming was later remedied by the addition of harder stearic acid. The production of paraffin wax enjoyed a boom in the early 20th century as a result of the growth of the meatpacking and oil industries, which created paraffin and stearic acid as byproducts .

Manufacturing of Semi Refined Paraffin Wax

The feedstock for paraffin is slack wax, which is a mixture of oil and wax, a byproduct from the refining of lubricating oil.

The first step in making paraffin wax is to remove the oil (de-oiling or de-waxing) from the slack wax. The oil is separated by crystallization. Most commonly, the slack wax is heated, mixed with one or more solvents such as a ketone and then cooled. As it cools, wax crystallizes out of the solution, leaving only oil. This mixture is filtered into two streams: solid (wax plus some solvent) and liquid (oil and solvent). After the solvent is recovered by distillation, the resulting products are called “product wax” (or “press wax”) and “foots oil”. The lower the percentage of oil in the wax, the more refined it is considered (semi-refined versus fully refined). The product wax may be further processed to remove colors and odors. The wax may finally be blended together to give certain desired properties such as melt point and penetration. Paraffin wax is sold in either liquid or solid form.

Semi Refined Paraffin Wax Applications

1. Candles, torches, tapers, matches, floor polishes.
2. Car polishes, corrosion protectors.
3. Electrical industries, cable filling compounds.
4. Tires and rubber products, as ozone protection.
5. Paper production.
6. Carbon paper, crayons and pencils.
7. Investment casting
8. Anti-caking agent, moisture repellent, and dustbinding coatings for fertilizers
9. Agent for preparation of specimens for histology
10. Bullet lubricant – with other ingredients, such as olive oil and beeswax
11. Phlegmatizing agent, commonly used to stabilise/desensitize high explosives such as RDX
12. Crayons
13. Solid propellant for hybrid rocket motors^[22][23]
14. Component of surfwax, used for grip on surfboards in surfing
15. Component of glide wax, used on skis and snowboards
16. Friction-reducer, for use on handrails and cement ledges, commonly used in skateboarding
17. Ink. Used as the basis for solid ink different color blocks of wax for thermal printers. The wax is melted and then sprayed on the paper producing images with a shiny surface
18. Microwax: food additive, a glazing agent with E number E905
19. Forensic investigations: the nitrate test uses paraffin wax to detect nitrates and nitrites on the hand of a shooting suspect
20. Antiozonant agents: blends of paraffin and micro waxes are used in rubber compounds to prevent cracking of the rubber; the admixture of wax migrates to the surface of the product and forms a protective layer. The layer can also act as a release agent, helping the product separate from its mould.
21. Mechanical thermostats and actuators, as an expansion medium for activating such devices
22. “Potting” guitar pickups, which reduces microphonic feedback caused from the subtle movements of the pole pieces
23. “Potting” of local oscillator coils to prevent microphonic frequency modulation in low end FM radios.
24. Textile manufacturing processes, such as that used for Eisengarn thread.
25. Wax baths for beauty and therapy purposes
26. Thickening agent in many paintballs
27. Moisturiser in toiletries and cosmetics such as Vaseline.
28. Prevents oxidation on the surface of polished steel and iron
29. Phase change material for thermal energy storage
    • MESSENGER (Mercury spacecraft) When the spacecraft was unable to radiate excessive heat.
30. Manufacture of boiled leather armor and books
31. Skateboard wax
32. Paraffin microactuator
33. Neutron radiation shielding
34. Waterproofing agent for waxed cotton garments and commercially important in the early water proofing of ship sails.
35. In Occupational and Physical therapies paraffin wax baths are used to warm and loosen connective tissue. They are mainly used in hand therapy.
36. Used as the main additive in Log Sealers

The Importance of Using Semi-Refined Paraffin Wax in Eastern and Southeastern Europe

Semi-refined paraffin wax plays a significant role in supporting economic and industrial activities in Albania, North Macedonia, Serbia, Slovenia, Montenegro, Romania, Bulgaria, Moldova, Ukraine, Poland, Latvia, and Croatia. Its versatility, cost-effectiveness, and wide range of applications make it a critical raw material in various sectors. Here’s an overview of its importance in these countries:

1. Candle Manufacturing
   Candle production is a major industry across Eastern Europe due to strong cultural, religious, and economic factors:
   Religious Ceremonies: Countries like Romania, Bulgaria, Ukraine, and Belarus have a high demand for candles in churches, festivals, and traditional practices.
   Household Usage: Candles remain a popular source of lighting during power outages in rural regions of Albania and Moldova.
   Export Opportunities: Nations like Poland, Slovenia, and Croatia manufacture and export candles to Western Europe, generating economic value.
2. Packaging Industry
   Agricultural and industrial packaging relies on paraffin wax for enhanced performance:
   Moisture Resistance: Paraffin wax is used to coat paper, cardboard, and food packaging, ensuring moisture-proof protection during storage and transportation.
   Agricultural Exports: Countries like Moldova, Romania, and North Macedonia benefit from wax-coated packaging to preserve fruits, vegetables, and grains for export.
   Cost-Effectiveness: Semi-refined paraffin wax is an affordable option for food-grade and industrial packaging applications.
3. Rubber and Tire Industry
   In industrialized countries like Poland, Serbia, and Ukraine, the rubber and automotive sectors depend on paraffin wax:
   Tire Manufacturing: Wax is added to improve the durability, weather resistance, and performance of tires, which is essential for export markets and local demand.
   Rubber Products: Wax acts as a lubricant and anti-cracking agent in the production of rubber components used in machinery and transportation.
4. Cosmetics and Personal Care
   The cosmetics industry is growing across Eastern Europe, particularly in Romania, Poland, and Croatia:
   Skincare Products: Semi-refined paraffin wax is a key ingredient in creams, lotions, and balms, offering moisturizing and stabilizing properties.
   Spa and Wellness: Paraffin wax is used in therapeutic treatments for hands, feet, and joint relief in wellness centers across Montenegro, Slovenia, and Latvia.
5. Agriculture and Horticulture
   Agriculture remains a major economic sector for countries like Ukraine, Moldova, Romania, and Bulgaria:
   Fruit Coatings: Paraffin wax is applied to fruits and vegetables to preserve freshness and reduce moisture loss during export.
   Seed Protection: Wax coatings improve seed viability and prevent spoilage during storage, enhancing crop productivity.
6. Textile and Leather Industries
   In North Macedonia, Bulgaria, and Serbia, semi-refined paraffin wax is utilized in textile and leather production:
   Fabric Coatings: Wax provides water resistance, durability, and stiffness to industrial textiles.
   Thread Lubrication: Wax-coated threads and yarns improve processing efficiency in textile manufacturing.
   Leather Treatment: Paraffin wax is used to polish and treat leather products, increasing their quality and lifespan.
7. Polishes and Adhesives
   In countries like Slovenia, Croatia, wax-based products play an essential role in household and industrial applications:
   Furniture and Floor Polishes: Semi-refined paraffin wax enhances the gloss and durability of wooden surfaces.
   Industrial Adhesives: Wax improves flexibility, bonding strength, and water resistance in sealants and adhesives used in construction and automotive industries.
8. Industrial Lubrication
   For industrial operations in Serbia, and Ukraine, semi-refined paraffin wax serves as a cost-efficient lubricant:
   Machinery Lubrication: Wax reduces friction and wear in mechanical parts, improving operational efficiency in factories.
   Cost Savings: Its affordability makes it ideal for small-to-medium industries striving for cost optimization.
9. Construction Industry
   Semi-refined paraffin wax is widely used in construction materials across Eastern Europe:
   Moisture Barriers: Wax is applied to protect wood, concrete, and bricks from moisture damage in humid and cold climates.
   Sealants and Insulations: Wax improves the durability and water resistance of building materials, supporting growing infrastructure projects in countries like Romania, Serbia, and Poland.
10. Economic Benefits
    The use of semi-refined paraffin wax boosts economic activities in multiple ways:
    Cost-Effective Material: Semi-refined paraffin wax is more affordable compared to fully refined alternatives, making it ideal for industries in developing economies like Albania, Moldova, and Montenegro.
    Export Opportunities: Countries like Poland, Romania, and Croatia utilize paraffin wax to produce candles, packaging, and cosmetic products for European and global markets.
    Industrial Growth: Wax supports key industries, such as agriculture, construction, and manufacturing, driving economic development across the region.

 

Application of semi-refined paraffin wax in countries such as Romania, Bulgaria, Serbia and Ukraine

1. Candle Manufacturing
   Primary Use:
   Used for making general-purpose candles, such as household candles and decorative candles.
   The higher oil content provides a softer texture, making it suitable for molded and pillar candles.
   Regional Context:
   Widespread use of candles in religious and cultural events, especially in Orthodox Christian practices.
2. Packaging Industry
   Application:
   Coating paper, cardboard, and corrugated boxes to enhance moisture resistance.
   Used for creating waxed paper for food wrapping, such as bakery items.
   Regional Relevance:
   Increasing demand for eco-friendly and biodegradable packaging solutions in the region.
3. Rubber and Tire Industry
   Role:
   Acts as a protective agent and anti-cracking compound in rubber processing.
   Prevents oxidation and protects rubber from ozone effects during storage and use.
   Importance:
   Growing industrial sectors in countries like Serbia and Ukraine drive demand for rubber products.
4. Wood and Furniture Industry
   Use:
   Applied as a polish or coating for wooden surfaces to protect against moisture and wear.
   Enhances the shine and durability of wooden furniture.
   Significance:
   Traditional craftsmanship and furniture production are prominent in Romania and Bulgaria.
5. Industrial Applications
   Metal Casting:
   Used in foundries for creating molds due to its excellent release properties.
   Lubricants and Greases:
   Added to industrial greases for machinery lubrication, especially in heavy industries.
   Electrical Insulation:
   Utilized as an insulating material in electrical equipment.
6. Agriculture and Horticulture
   Application:
   Coating seeds to improve storage and prevent moisture absorption.
   Protecting fruits and vegetables during storage and transportation.
   Relevance:
   Agriculture is a significant sector in these countries, with focus on enhancing crop protection.
7. Textile Industry
   Use:
   Acts as a finishing agent to add smoothness and water repellency to fabrics.
   Regional Context:
   Growing textile production, particularly in Bulgaria and Serbia, benefits from paraffin-based treatments.
8. Adhesives and Sealants
   Role:
   Used as a component in the production of hot-melt adhesives.
   Helps in sealants for industrial and household applications.
9. Religious and Cultural Products
   Candles for Religious Use:
   Commonly used in the production of candles for Orthodox Christian rituals and ceremonies.
   Wax for Artistic Creations:
   Utilized in crafting and sculpting decorative and artistic wax items.

ZUMRUT KIMYA is one of the most famous supplier and exporter of semi-refined paraffin wax in the Eastern Europe countries such as Albania, North Macedonia, Serbia, Slovenia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Romania, Bulgaria, Moldova, Ukraine, Estonia, Poland, Latvia, Croatia

Packing of Semi Refined Paraffin Wax

Semi refined paraffin wax 1-1.5% oil content packing is 5 kg slabs; in the carton, pp (polypropylene) bags or gunny and there is the possibility of palatalizing too.

Analysis of Semi Refined Paraffin Wax

 

Light grade

Semi-Refined Paraffin Wax L.G

 

Heavy grade