Chemical Composition

Fully refined paraffin wax is primarily composed of saturated hydrocarbons. The key components include:

• Alkanes (C20-C40): Paraffin wax is made up of long-chain alkanes, with carbon chains typically ranging from C20 to C40. These hydrocarbons are the primary constituents of paraffin wax.
• Saturated Hydrocarbons: The wax is saturated, meaning all carbon atoms are bonded to the maximum number of hydrogen atoms, which makes the wax stable and non-reactive.
• Minor Impurities: During the refining process, most impurities (such as oils, resins, and colorants) are removed, but trace amounts of aromatic hydrocarbons and other minor constituents may still be present, though they are minimal.
• Melting Point: Fully refined paraffin wax typically has a melting point range of 46°C to 68°C (115°F to 154°F), depending on the specific formulation and grade.
• Odor: It is essentially odorless, which makes it ideal for applications where fragrance or scent is important, such as candle-making.
• Color: The wax is typically white or translucent in color after refining, as most natural colorants are removed during the refining process.

Grades of Fully Refined Paraffin Wax

There are several grades of fully refined paraffin wax, each suited to different applications, based on its purity, melting point, and other characteristics. Common grades include:

1. Low Melting Point Grade (46°C-52°C or 115°F-126°F):
   • Applications: Ideal for candle-making, especially for container candles. It is also used in some coatings and as a lubricant.
   • Characteristics: This grade is softer and has a lower melting point, making it easier to work with in warm environments.
2. Medium Melting Point Grade (54°C-58°C or 130°F-136°F):
   • Applications: Used for candle-making, cosmetics, and industrial applications such as coatings and waterproofing.
   • Characteristics: It offers a balance between hardness and ease of melting, making it versatile for a variety of applications.
3. High Melting Point Grade (60°C-68°C or 140°F-154°F):
   • Applications: Suitable for industrial applications, such as coatings, lubricants, and mold release agents. It is also used in some types of high-quality candles.
   • Characteristics: This grade is harder and has a higher melting point, providing greater stability at higher temperatures.
4. Cosmetic Grade (USP or BP):
   • Applications: Used in cosmetic and personal care products like lotions, creams, lip balms, and other skincare products.
   • Characteristics: Highly refined for purity and safety, meeting the standards of the United States Pharmacopeia (USP) or British Pharmacopoeia (BP).
5. Food Grade:
   • Applications: In some cases, refined paraffin wax is used as a coating for fruits, vegetables, and candies to maintain freshness and improve shelf life.
   • Characteristics: Must meet strict regulatory standards for food safety.

Other Considerations

• Viscosity: Depending on the grade, the viscosity of the wax may vary. This can influence how easily the wax melts or how it is applied in different processes.
• Additives: In some grades, additives may be included to alter the wax’s texture, such as hardeners, stabilizers, or colorants for specific applications.

Fully refined paraffin wax is a versatile material that can be tailored for specific uses based on its grade, purity, and other physical properties. The refining process removes most of the natural impurities, making it ideal for high-quality products like candles, cosmetics, and food coatings.