Paraffin Wax and its applications in Candle production industry

Introduction

Do you know Paraffin Wax? Have you ever thought about what is the raw material of a candle and what effect does it have on its quality? Follow this article to learn more about paraffin wax and its applications in candle compounds.

At first, we’re going to get acquainted with paraffin wax and meet its features. Second, we’re going to find out why it is suitable for candle production.

Paraffin Wax Features

Paraffin wax finds a lot of applications in candle production industry. One of its most important features is its high melting point. This wax has a high energy content that allows candle burn slowly and keeps the flame burning longer. It provides a steady and consistent flame.

This product is colorless and odorless. It also has good stability that can hold fragrances and dyes. Adding color and scent to this wax is not hard, because it’s easy to blend. In other words, it’s a suitable choice to make decorative candles with different colors and scents.

When it comes to mass production, it is a good choice for making candles. It comes from petroleum, so it’s an available product. Moreover, it’s an inexpensive wax.

This product molds into different shapes and sizes. So it’s a versatile product for making different types of candles, such as pillar candles, votive candles, cartridge candles, container candles and tea lights.

Paraffin wax comes in different grades, which can vary in terms of melting point, hardness and quality.

·         Fully refined: it’s the highest quality and often makes high-end candles.

·         Semi-refined (or slack wax): it contains some impurities, so makes economical candles.

It can be blended with other waxes, such as soy wax or beeswax, to create hybrid blends. These blends combine the desirable properties of different waxes, such as the natural and renewable characteristics of soy or beeswax, with the affordability and versatility of paraffin wax.

Candle manufacturers often add additives to paraffin wax to improve its performance. These additives can include stearic acid, vybar, or polyethylene powder. Stearic acid can help increase the opacity and hardness of the wax, while vybar and polyethylene powder aid in reducing shrinkage and enhancing fragrance retention.

Paraffin Wax Effects

While paraffin wax is generally safe for candle production, it’s important to handle it properly. When you want to melt the wax, you should do it in well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling any fumes. Additionally, the use of proper equipment, such as double boilers or dedicated wax melters, helps prevent accidents and ensure safe handling.

It is a byproduct of petroleum refining, which is a non-renewable resource. As a result, there are environmental concerns that associate with its production and use.

Conclusion

There are various waxes that can replace paraffin wax, such as soy wax, beeswax and palm wax. Despite the availability of alternative waxes, it continues to be the most popular in the candle industry.

To sum up, this is mainly due to its cost-effectiveness, versatility, and ability to produce consistent and high-quality candles that meet consumer preferences. Candles that contain paraffin wax in their compounds, can be customized according to preferences and considerations.

To know more about analysis of Paraffin wax for Candle and TDS, please check HERE.