It is usually divided into two heads, namely semi-refined and full-refined. The basic difference between the two types is in the intensity of processing and, hence all other characteristics concerning them.
Semi-refined paraffin wax
Semi-refined paraffin wax is less refined and, therefore, contains a much higher oil content, which normally ranges between 1% and 10%. This higher oil content makes it softer, with a much lower melting point than that of fully refined wax. Semi-refined wax can be used for various applications such as candle making, polishes, and glues. However, due to its impure nature, semi-refined wax may tend to have mediocre results in some applications.
Applications of semi-refined paraffin wax:
Candle making: is one of the most extensive areas of its application because it is cheaper and has a relatively soft texture; thus, semi-refined wax finds great demand in candle making, especially for the low-cost lines of production.
Production of rubber and tires: softener and plasticizer in rubber compounds for improving elasticity and resistance.
Water Proof and Sealing: Semi-refined wax finds applications in various waterproofing and sealing areas, such as coating on paper and packaging material.
Polishes and Lubricants: It acts as an excellent lubricant, and hence, it finds application in polishes and lubricants for various kinds of surfaces.
Adhesives: Semi-refined wax forms an ingredient in some adhesives, primarily hot melt adhesives.
Fully-refined paraffin wax
The process for fully refined involves heavier types of purification, such as hydro-treating and filtration by clay. These additional steps reduce the oil content considerably, making the wax have a higher melting point, texture hardness, and clarity. Because of purity, fully refined wax finds applications in very highly qualitative applications such as cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food packaging.
Applications of fully refined paraffin wax:
Candles: These are manufactured from wax that is fully refined, therefore giving a fine, clean burn and maintaining their shape.
Cosmetics: Because of its purity and nontoxicity, it can serve for a wide range of cosmetic applications such as lipsticks, creams, and lotions.
Pharmaceuticals: Fully refined wax is used in pharmaceutical applications as an coating agent for both tablets and capsules, apart from being an ingredient in ointments and salves.
Food packaging: The inertness and resistance to moisture and oxidation make the product very suitable for food packaging applications.
Electrical insulation: The fully refined wax is utilized as electrical insulation in several electronic parts and appliances.
Whether the paraffin wax is semi-refined or fully refined depends upon the purpose or application of the said product. General-purpose applications will find the Less refined wax acceptable due to its lesser cost and softer texture. Fully refined wax, although more expensive, assuredly has its stability factor, clarity, and resistance to oxidation, which definitely make it better than the Less refined for highly particular applications that demand a much higher degree of quality and purity.
