What Is Paraffin Wax?
Paraffin wax, a hydrocarbon mixture predominantly consisting of linear alkanes with 20 to 40 carbon atoms, is a solid at room temperature. It is derived from the vacuum distillation of crude oil. While kerosene is known as paraffin oil overseas, in Japan, paraffin wax refers specifically to solid paraffin to avoid confusion with kerosene.
Characteristics of Paraffin Wax
Paraffin wax is classified by its melting point, but as it’s a mixture, waxes with the same melting point can have different hardness and temperature variations depending on their composition.
Uses of Paraffin Wax
Paraffin wax is used in various applications like candle-making and paper product processing. Its moisture-proofing, waterproofing, and glossiness attributes are beneficial when applied as a surface coating. Known for its versatility, paraffin wax is used as a fuel in candles, igniters, and fire blowers.
Due to its safety and minimal skin or eye irritation, paraffin wax is also commonly used in cosmetics, including eye shadow, mascara, soap, and lipstick.
Medical Applications
In dentistry, paraffin wax’s ability to maintain shape at room temperature yet be malleable when warmed is advantageous for denture fabrication and bite recording. Thin paraffin wax boards are used for their ease of bending by fingers, making them useful in various dental procedures.