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Paraffin Wax Definition
Paraffin Wax is a type of wax derived from petroleum, coal, or shale oil. It consists mainly of saturated hydrocarbons and is solid at room temperature but melts at relatively low temperatures, typically between 46°C and 68°C (115°F to 154°F). Paraffin wax is commonly used in various applications:
- Candle Making: It is one of the most common materials used in candle production due to its low cost, ease of use, and ability to hold fragrance and color.
- Cosmetics and Personal Care Products: Petroleum wax is used in skincare products such as lotions, creams, and balms to provide emollient and moisturizing properties. It can also be found in lip balms, hair removal products, and therapeutic treatments for conditions like eczema and psoriasis.
- Food Preservation: Paraffin wax is used to coat cheeses and preserve their freshness by creating a barrier against moisture and contaminants. It is also used in canning and sealing jars of homemade jams and jellies.
- Packaging: Paraffin wax is used as a coating on cardboard and paper packaging to provide moisture resistance and improve the appearance of the packaging.
- Pharmaceuticals: It is used in various pharmaceutical applications, including coating tablets to control the release of active ingredients and in the production of medicinal ointments and creams.
- Industrial Applications: Petroleum wax is used in various industrial processes, such as in the manufacturing of waxed paper, corrugated boxes, textiles, and electrical insulators.
- Art and Crafts: Paraffin wax is used in art and craft projects, such as encaustic painting, sculpting, and candle carving.
Paraffin , also known as liquid paraffin, paraffin oil is a combustible hydrocarbon liquid that is burned as a fuel. It is a mixture of different types of simple hydrocarbons, it is less volatile than gasoline and it boils at 302-527 degrees Fahrenheit. Paraffin can be extracted from coal, wood and oil shale, but it is primarily obtained from the distillation of petroleum, which was first distilled in 1807 by geologist Abraham Gesner. The cost of producing kerosene was high, however, when new sources of paraffin and cheaper methods of refining were later discovered, it lead to lower prices of the fuel. kerosene, when found in solid form, is called kerosene , while the liquid form is referred to as paraffin oil. kerosene is a mineral oil that comes in two forms, either heavy liquid paraffin oil or light liquid paraffin oil. kerosene is clean burning and maintains a high heat output.
What is paraffin in the form of a point of ambiguity can be considered as a question in chemistry in the first place. In chemistry, there are substances called alkanes, which are known by the chemical formula CnH2n + 2. In fact, paraffin is a common name for this type of substance, alkanes. However, it must be admitted that the question of what paraffin is not limited to the science of chemistry, and the answer to this question and the general nature of paraffin can be found in other areas as well. In general, one of the important characteristics of paraffinic hydrocarbons is the binding of carbon atoms in them by simple bonds with each other. Meanwhile, other available bonds are saturated with hydrogen atoms.
Paraffin Wax Applications
Paraffin has a wide range of applications across various industries, including:
- Candle Making: Paraffin is commonly used as the primary ingredient in candle manufacturing due to its ability to hold fragrance and color well.
- Cosmetics: It is utilized in cosmetics such as lipsticks, lip balms, creams, and lotions for its moisturizing and emollient properties.
- Pharmaceuticals: Paraffin is found in ointments and creams for its moisturizing and protective qualities, often used in treatments for dry skin conditions like eczema.
- Food Industry: It can be used as a coating for fruits and vegetables to extend their shelf life and improve their appearance.
- Packaging: Paraffin wax coatings are applied to paper and cardboard packaging to provide moisture resistance and enhance durability.
- Therapeutic Treatments: Paraffin wax baths are utilized in spas and physical therapy clinics to soothe muscles and joints and to soften and moisturize the skin.
- Industrial Applications: It serves as a lubricant, a sealant for jars and cans, and an ingredient in various manufacturing processes such as rubber production and electrical insulation.
- Art and Craft: Paraffin wax is used in art and craft projects, such as encaustic painting, where it is melted and applied as a colored medium.
- Modeling: It is used in sculpting and modeling to create temporary molds or shapes due to its ability to harden when cooled.
ZUMRUT is a big manufacturer and supplier of all kinds of Paraffin in all grades in Iran.
Production and properties of Paraffin Wax
Paraffin wax is produced through a refining process of crude oil. Here’s an overview of its production and properties:
1-Production:
- Crude Oil Distillation: Vaseline is derived from the residue left behind after the distillation of crude oil. During this process, crude oil is heated in a fractionating tower, separating it into different components based on their boiling points.
- Fractional Distillation: The heavier hydrocarbon fractions, which have higher boiling points, are further refined through fractional distillation. This process separates the paraffin wax from other components like diesel, gasoline, and lubricating oils.
- Deoiling: The paraffin wax fraction is then subjected to a process called deoiling, which removes any remaining oil and impurities. This may involve solvent extraction, filtration, or centrifugation.
- Hydrofinishing: In some cases, the paraffin wax undergoes hydrofinishing to improve its color, odor, and stability. This process involves hydrogenation to remove unsaturated hydrocarbons and improve the overall quality of the wax.
- Packaging: Once refined, the paraffin wax is cooled and solidified into blocks or pellets. It is then packaged and distributed for use in various industries and applications.
2-Properties:
- Melting Point: Paraffin wax typically has a melting point ranging from 46°C to 68°C (115°F to 154°F), depending on its grade and purity. This property makes it suitable for applications where controlled melting and solidification are desired.
- Odorless and Colorless: High-quality paraffin wax is odorless and colorless, making it suitable for use in cosmetics, food packaging, and pharmaceuticals where purity is essential.
- Low Toxicity: Paraffin wax is considered non-toxic and safe for use in various applications. However, it is essential to ensure that it is free from contaminants and impurities that may affect its safety.
- Softening and Emollient Properties: Paraffin wax has softening and emollient properties, making it effective in skincare products for moisturizing and soothing the skin. It forms a protective barrier that helps retain moisture and prevent moisture loss.
- Flammability: Paraffin wax is flammable and should be handled with care to prevent fire hazards. When used in candles, additives are often included to enhance burn performance and reduce the risk of flare-ups.
- Insulating Properties: Paraffin wax has excellent insulating properties, making it suitable for use in electrical insulators, waxed paper, and packaging materials. It helps to protect materials from moisture, heat, and contaminants.
- Versatility: Paraffin wax is highly versatile and can be easily blended with other waxes, oils, and additives to modify its properties for specific applications. It can be formulated to meet various requirements for hardness, melting point, color, and fragrance.
