difference between Paraffin and Micro crystalline Waxes
There are two major classifications of petroleum waxes: paraffin, which form large, clearly define crystalline structures; and micro-crystalline waxes, which have more branch chains and much smaller crystals of irregular shape.
Micro crystalline wax has a higher melting point, higher viscosity .Fully refine wax has oil content less that 0.5%. Semi -refine waxes have up to 1.5% oil. Scale waxes and slack waxes have even more oil, up to a common maximum of 35%. Paraffin waxes sold commercially are mixtures of normal(straight chain) and ISO(or branch) Alkanes.
They are exempt from the presence of the esters, acids, etc. Found in the animal and vegetable-base waxes. Hence they are much more suitable for industrial formulations where predictable outcomes are preferrable . Both Paraffin and Micro crystalline waxes are largely inert (the name paraffin itself comes from the Latin, meaning against affinities). Micro-crystalline waxes contain a higher proportion of isomers while paraffins have a higher proportion of normal carbon chains.
Paraffin wax and microcrystalline wax are both derive from petroleum, but they have some key differences in their properties and uses. Here’s a breakdown of the main differences:
1. Composition
- Paraffin Wax: It is primarily compos of straight-chain hydrocarbons. The molecules are simple and have less branching, making it less dense and more brittle.
- Microcrystalline Wax: It contains a higher proportion of branch hydrocarbons and has a denser molecular structure, with more complex branching and smaller crystals compare to paraffin wax.
2. Texture and Consistency
- Paraffin Wax: It is generally harder and more brittle. It has a smoother texture and is typically more crystalline in appearance.
- Microcrystalline Wax: It is softer, more flexible, and has a waxier texture. The wax is more tacky and less crystalline.
3. Melting Point
- Paraffin Wax: It has a lower melting point, usually ranging from 46°C to 68°C (115°F to 154°F).
- Microcrystalline Wax: It has a higher melting point, typically ranging from 63°C to 93°C (145°F to 199°F).
4. Color and Appearance
- Paraffin Wax: Typically clear or white in color, and it is more refined than microcrystalline wax.
- Microcrystalline Wax: It is usually more opaque and may appear yellowish or brownish, depending on the refinement process.
5. Uses of Paraffins and Microcrystalline Waxes
- Paraffin Wax: It is commonly used in candles, cosmetics, food coatings, and as a lubricant. It is also used in the production of crayons, paper coatings, and electrical insulation.
- Microcrystalline Wax: It is used in applications that require a more flexible and tacky material, such as in cosmetics (lip balms, ointments), adhesives, coatings, and in the manufacture of chewing gum. It is also used in the rubber, automotive, and plastic industries.
6. Solubility
- Paraffin Wax: Soluble in non-polar solvents like benzene, toluene, and ether.
- Microcrystalline Wax: It is slightly less soluble in common solvents compared to paraffin wax due to its denser and more complex molecular structure.
7. Clarity
- Paraffin Wax: It is generally clearer and more transparent.
- Microcrystalline Wax: It tends to be more opaque due to its finer crystalline structure.
Summary of difference Paraffins and Microcrystalline Waxes:
- Paraffin Wax: Harder, more brittle, clearer, with a lower melting point, and typically used for candles, coatings, and cosmetics.
- Microcrystalline Wax: Softer, more flexible, tackier, with a higher melting point, and often used in cosmetics, adhesives, and as a modifier in other products.
