Why Paraffin Wax is a Popular Choice for Candle Making:
The composition of paraffin
Simple carbon bonds may be seen in the structure of paraffin, which will be produced by refining basic oils. The chemical formula for paraffin wax is CnHn+2. Pure paraffin begins to melt at temperatures over 37 degrees, so if you hold it in your palm for a while, it will eventually soften. Physically, paraffin wax is white, odorless, tasteless, and insoluble in water; it burns slowly and is the finest fat for candle manufacturing.
This substance exists in two varieties: liquid paraffin and paraffin wax. For the creation of liquid paraffin, a variety of light base oils are used, while paraffin wax is derived from slack wax, which is a mix of oil and wax obtained by refining petrochemical oils. This item falls into two categories: light paraffin or macrocrystal and heavy paraffin or microcrystal.
The value of paraffin wax is determined by its purity and the quantity of oil present; therefore, the lower the oil content, the greater the quality and value. In order to do this, paraffin manufacturers will first separate the oil from the slack wax, a process known as de-oiling or de-waxing. The molten slack wax is then combined with solvents such as ketones to produce a unique paraffin known as Foots oil. Foots oil is a form of low-quality paraffin that may be processed into pure paraffin wax. After pouring the heated solution into the mold and allowing it to cool, the paraffin wax is ready for sale.
Among the applications of paraffin wax are:
- Utilization of paraffin in candle making Rubber manufacture and tanning.
- In the manufacture of sterile paraffin for paraffin treatment.
- Using paraffin in creating matches.
- Production of industrial oils and edible paraffin wax in addition to oil production.
- Oil paper, pastel, and crayon production.
- Candles are made from paraffin, which is available in solid (acidic), crystalline, gel, and liquid forms, among others. The types of paraffin wax are detailed in the following section.
Related Article: paraffin manufacturing
Distinguishes paraffin wax
It has a hazy appearance and a high fat content, and candles made with this paraffin will turn yellow with time. However, newcomers in the candle-making sector should utilize this kind of paraffin since its price is more affordable than that of other paraffins.
Crystal paraffin
It is marketed at a higher price than acid paraffin and is white and clear in appearance. This paraffin is used to create candles and is more highly recommended than other varieties.
What distinguishes paraffin wax from crystal paraffin?
One of the distinctions between crystal and conventional paraffin is the fat content and purity of the former. Crystal paraffin will have a lower fat content than regular paraffin, as well as more resistance, a longer fuel lifetime, and superior color ability. It is derived from crude oil, while normal paraffin is derived from oil waste and is less refined than crystal paraffin. In terms of look, it is darker and less brilliant than crystal, and it costs less than crystal.
Crystal paraffin is clearer and more flexible than paraffin wax, and its overall quality will be superior.
How to liquify paraffin?
To melt paraffin wax, just cut it into pieces, place it on fire, and wait for it to melt. Now it’s time to add stearic acid based on its quantity. According to the principles, a half kilogram of paraffin wax requires two to three teaspoons of stearic acid.
Pour the jelly paraffins into a container, add a little amount of stearic acid, and then place the container over the indirect heat of a bain-marie until the paraffin melts.
Tips for manufacturing candles with paraffin wax
This substance is combustible; therefore, avoid using it near open flames.
Paraffin candle smoke is very hazardous to the lungs and should be avoided.
Oil and fat derived from paraffin are synthetic and not considered edible vegetable or animal oils. Due to the presence of petroleum compounds, this material disturbs the digestive system and digestion if it enters edible oils.
Last word
Paraffin is often marketed in solid and liquid forms, both of which are comprised of petroleum components. The paraffin used to create candles differs somewhat from the paraffin used in industry and medicine. Candle-making paraffins are solid or gelatinous, but industrial paraffins are liquid.
Paraffins suited for candle making, such as jelly, crystal, translucent, glitter, etc., whose melting temperatures vary, will be utilized to create a unique candle.
Prepared by the PetroNaft Co. research team.