Micro Crystalline Wax
Micro Crystalline Wax Definition
Micro crystalline wax, any petroleum-derived plastic material that differs from paraffin waxes in having much finer and less-distinct crystals and higher melting point and viscosity. Micro crystalline wax are used chiefly in laminated-paper products, in coatings and linings, and in adhesives, sealing compositions, and various types of polishes.
Microcrystalline wax is a type of wax produced by DE-oiling petrolatum, as part of the petroleum refining process. It contains the high percentage of ISO paraffinic (branched) hydrocarbons and naphthenic hydrocarbons. It is characterized by the fineness of its crystals in contrast to the larger crystal of paraffin wax. It consists of high molecular weight saturated aliphatic hydrocarbons.
Micro crystalline wax is generally darker, more viscous, denser, tackier and more elastic than paraffin wax, and has a higher molecular weight and melting point. The elastic and adhesive characteristics of microcrystalline waxes are related to the non-straight chain components which they contain. The typical microcrystalline wax crystal structure is small and thin, making them more flexible than paraffin wax.
In contrast to paraffins, microcrystalline wax may vary widely in character depending on the crude-oil source and the method and degree of refinement. Some are ductile, like beeswax; others are hard and brittle; and still others crumble easily during handling.
The melting-point range is higher than that of paraffin wax, with commercial grades ranging from 63°C to 93°C (145° to 200° F). The color of microcrystalline waxes ranges from creamy white to dark brown. Decolonization is difficult, and these waxes’ odor and taste may be undesirable in some applications.
Microcrystalline waxes may be made from the residue of crude petroleum by refining; or they may be made from petroleum jelly by removing the oil with a solvent.
Their physical properties may be controlled by the temperature of the solvents. Methods of separation include solvent dilution, chilling, centrifuging, filtering, and various combinations of these.
Chemically, microcrystalline waxes consist of saturated aliphatic hydrocarbons.
Application of Micro Crystalline Wax
Micro crystalline wax is commonly used in cosmetic formulations, glue manufacturing, and adhesives, skin care creams, inks, chewing gum, candles, rubber, gels, laminated paper products, in coatings and linings, in adhesives, sealing compositions, ointments and various types of polishes. It is also used in packaging & plastic industries.
Industries Users of Microcrystalline Wax:
- Adhesives
- Candles
- Rodent Baits
- Explosives & Pyrotechnics
- Fertilizer Coating
- Histology
- Corrosion Protection
- Construction Boards (e.g. Gypsum, MDF, Particle Boards)
- Polishes (Car care, Shoe, Floor, Wood, etc)
- Flexible Packaging
- Cosmetics & Pharma
- Textile & Leather
- Chewing Gum (Gum Base)
- Cheese Coating
- Poultry
- Crayons & Pencils
- Fire Logs & Safety Matches
Packing of Micro Crystalline Wax
Regular packing in RAHA Paraffin Co is carton boxes. The products are produced in 5 Kg slabs. Each slab is put in the nylon bag and each 5 slabs are put in 1 carton boxes. Carton boxes are hard enough not to get damage because of their 5 hard layers. Also it is possible to make a bulk piece with 25 Kg weight.
We can also print or attach your brand on the carton boxes.
Analysis of Micro Crystalline Wax
| items | soft | hard | Test method |
| Oil content | 5-10 | 1% | ASTM D-721 |
| Flash point | 250 ˚c | 300 ˚c | ASTM D-92 |
| Color | Yellow | Cream | ASTM D-1500 |
| Melting point | 65±2 ˚c | 86-88 ˚c | ASTM D-87 |
| Congealing point | Approx 55 ˚c | 70 ˚c | ASTM D-3712 |
| Specific gravity | 0.8-0.82 gr/cm3 | 0.8-0.82 gr/cm3 | ASTM D-1500 |
| Kinematic viscosity | @100 ˚c approx 16 cst | @100 ˚c approx 16 cst | ASTM D-445 |
Contact our sales team for full information about the specification and prices.
