Paraffin Wax forms a core raw material for a wide number of industries. The following blog lists the major industrial uses of paraffin wax.
What is Paraffin Wax?
Wikipedia describes paraffin wax as “white or colorless soft solid derivable from petroleum, coal or oil shale”. In its original form, paraffin wax is waxy, tasteless, odorless and white color solid that burns readily.
Uses of Paraffin Wax
Paraffin is used in a variety of industries including:
Agriculture – Paraffin and special mixtures are used in the fertilizer industries as anti-caking additives so as to ease their dosing, handling and transportation.
Food – Paraffin forms an important coating for foods such as cheese, citrus fruits, etc. Its also used in the production of gum base which is an important ingredient for chewing gums.
Rubber – Paraffin is used in the production of tyres helping insulate them from ozone and protect them from chipping and cracking.
Electrical appliances – Paraffin is used to insulate electric nodes and appliances wirings.
Pharmaceuticals and Cosmetics – Paraffin is used to coat tablets to protect their surfaces and also forms an important ingredient in a wide variety of lipsticks, creams, pastes, and lotions.
Matches – Although minimal in quantity but the application of paraffin in the matchstick box lightening strips, helps regulate their burning.
Fabric – All fabrics contain waxy coating that gives it softness, elasticity and flexibility. However, environmental exposure and repeated usage robs its of the waxy texture and needs to be recoated.
Paper – Paper is used to insulate many kinds of food. However, because paper in itself is not able to provide good insulation properties, it needs to be coated with paraffin wax to prevent passage of odors, micro-organisms and moisture.
Besides the above, paraffin is used in other industries such as in the manufacture of candles, paints and varnishes, chipboard, skiing and surfing material etc.
