What is polyethylene wax?
Polyethylene Wax, also known as PE Wax, is an ultra low molecular weight polyethylene.
PE wax has a large variety of uses and applications.
It is produced through processes like polymerization and refining, resulting in a product that is highly valued for its low viscosity and excellent compatibility with other materials. This material is available in both HDPE and LDPE forms. As there are many grades and types available.
Application of Polyethylene Wax
PE Wax is widely used across different sectors due to its multifunctional properties.
Key applications are include:
- Plastic Processing
Used as a lubricant and mold release agent, polyethylene wax improves flow characteristics during molding, leading to superior finishes in plastic products.
- Coatings and Inks
It enhances durability and surface quality in coatings and inks, providing increased resistance to wear and environmental factors.
- Rubber Processing
In rubber compounding, polyethylene wax reduces friction and aids in the uniform dispersion of additives, resulting in high-performance rubber products.
- Cosmetic Formulations
Valued for its emollient properties, polyethylene wax contributes to the smooth textures of products like lipsticks, creams, and lotions.
- Adhesive Formulations
PE- Wax improves the flow, tack, and adhesion properties of adhesives. It helps optimize formulation performance by balancing viscosity and enhancing cohesion.
- Cable and Wire Manufacturing
In cable and wire insulation, this wax acts as a slip agent, ensuring smoother extrusion processes and better final product integrity by reducing friction during production.
- Paper and Packaging Industry
It is used in paper coatings and packaging films to enhance water resistance and surface finish, ensuring improved durability and a high-quality look.
How is PE Wax made?
There are a variety of methods for producing Polyethylene wax. It can be made by direct polymerization of ethylene under special conditions that control molecular weight.
Another method involves breaking down high molecular weight polyethylene into lower molecular weight fractions. A third method involves separation of the low molecular weight fraction from high molecular weight polymer.
Differences Between PE Waxes Types and Grades
There are three major characteristics that differentiate one PE wax from another. They are: Molecular weight, Degree and length of polymer branching, Monomer / polymer composition.
Changing any of these factors will alter the physical characteristics of the polyethylene wax, such as viscosity, hardness, melt point, reactivity etc.
Conventional PE Wax:
A standard form that delivers reliable performance in plastic processing, coatings, and adhesives.
Functionalized PE Wax:
Chemically modified to enhance compatibility with particular polymers and additives for specialized formulations.
Grades of PE Wax
Low Molecular Weight:
Offers excellent flow properties and reduced viscosity for efficient processing.
High Molecular Weight:
Provides superior structural integrity and higher melting points for durable applications.
Specialty Grades:
Tailored for niche uses, these grades feature enhanced thermal stability, adhesion, and resistance to environmental factors.
Advantages of PE WAX
Polyethylene Wax offers significant advantages like improved processing efficiency with low viscosity, improvement in the flow of polymers, and the minimization of disturbances. It is economical through the reduction in the consumption of various additives and maintains uniform product quality with better finish and longevity.
Additionally, its high thermal stability makes it suitable for applications sensitive to temperatures, while refined technologies offer ecologically friendly forms that highlight its compatibility with the environment.
Also, PE wax helps granule produce by decrease softening point of system.
Polyethylene wax is very good external lubricant for PVC. When PE wax use in PVC application, final produce face has been shine.
Polyethylene wax using decrease the friction so increase the extrusion capacity also, using it doesn’t change the product color because PE wax has got good oxidation resistance.
PE Wax hasn’t got toxic materials so it can be used for food packaging applications.
Packing of PE-Wax
It is packed in 25 PP bags for preventing to absorb moisture.
Also, for more protection PP bags put in Jumbo bags.
According to our customers inquiry, we offere PE Wax in: Jumbo bags, PP bags on pallet and shrink, and pp bags in jumbo bags.
Polyethylene Wax Specification
| Typical Property | UNIT | Value | Test Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Flake | White, Black Spots Free | VRM-WI-079-00 |
| Softening Point | °C | 100-105 | ASTM – ED3418 |
| Penetration Index | d.mm | 5-8 | ASTM D1321 |
| Viscosity | Cps @140°C | 10-20 | ASTM – D3236 |
| Density | Gr/Cm3 @25°C | 0.9 ± 0.03 | ASTM – D1505 |
| Flash Point | °C | 140< | ASTM – D93 |
