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CAS Number : 64771-71-7
EINECS: 265-232-9
DESCRIPTION:
Paraffin wax (or petroleum wax) is a soft colorless solid derived from petroleum, coal or oil shale that consists of a mixture of hydrocarbon molecules containing between twenty and forty carbon atoms. Paraffin is solid at room temperature and begins to melt above approximately 37 °C (99 °F), and its boiling point is above 370 °C (698 °F).
Common applications for paraffin wax include lubrication, electrical insulation, and candles; dyed paraffin wax can be made into crayons.
Paraffin is distinct from kerosene and other petroleum products that are sometimes called paraffin.
Un-dyed, unscented paraffin candles are odorless and bluish-white.
Paraffin wax was first created by Carl Reichenbach in Germany in 1830 and marked a major advancement in candlemaking technology, as it burned more cleanly and reliably than tallow candles and was cheaper to produce.
In chemistry, paraffin is used synonymously with alkane, indicating hydrocarbons with the general formula CnH2n+2.
The name is derived from Latin parum ("very little") + affinis, meaning "lacking affinity" or "lacking reactivity", referring to paraffin's unreactive nature.
C1-C6 n-Paraffin includes:
• 100 ppm of each component in nitrogen.
• It consists of cylinder of 14 L.
• The multi-component gas mixture is suitable for GC calibration, testing of fixed and personal gas monitors and in situ industrial stack analyzers.
• A certificate of analysis is provided.
• Packaged in lightweight, non-refillable, recyclable containers.
• Portable, convenient, and easy to use.
• Manufactured gravimetrically for maximum accuracy.
• NIST traceable.
PROPERTIES OF PARAFFIN:
Chemical formula: CnH2n+2
Appearance: White solid
Odor: Odorless
Boiling point: > 370 °C (698 °F)
Solubility in water: ~1 mg/L
Hazards:
Flash point: 200–240 °C (392–464 °F; 473–513 K)
Density: 0.85 g/mL at 20 °C
refractive index: n20/D 1.467(lit.)
storage temp. : Room Temperature
solubility: Practically insoluble in water, slightly soluble in ethanol (96 per cent), miscible with hydrocarbons.
Form: light oil
Color: white
Water Solubility :
Miscible with ether.
Slightly miscible with ethanol.
Immiscible with water.
Stability: Stable.
Substances to be avoided include strong oxidizing agents.
Combustible.
Paraffin wax is mostly found as a white, odorless, tasteless, waxy solid, with a typical melting point between about 46 and 68 °C (115 and 154 °F), and a density of around 900 kg/m3.
Paraffin is insoluble in water, but soluble in ether, benzene, and certain esters.
Paraffin is unaffected by most common chemical reagents but burns readily.
Its heat of combustion is 42 MJ/kg.
Paraffin wax is an excellent electrical insulator, with a resistivity of between 1013 and 1017 ohm metre.
Paraffin is better than nearly all other materials except some plastics (notably Teflon).
Paraffin is an effective neutron moderator and was used in James Chadwick's 1932 experiments to identify the neutron.
Paraffin wax is an excellent material for storing heat, with a specific heat capacity of 2.14–2.9 J g−1 K−1 (joules per gram kelvin) and a heat of fusion of 200–220 J g−1.
Paraffin wax phase-change cooling coupled with retractable radiators was used to cool the electronics of the Lunar Roving Vehicle during the crewed missions to the Moon in the early 1970s.
Wax expands considerably when it melts and this allows its use in wax element thermostats for industrial, domestic and, particularly, automobile purposes
PARAFFIN is a transparent, colorless liquid, without fluorescence in daylight.
Paraffin is practically tasteless and odorless when cold, and has a faint odor when heated.
The USP32–NF27 specifies that light mineral oil may contain a suitable stabilizer.
CAS Number : 64771-71-7
EINECS: 265-232-9
HISTORY OF PARAFFIN:
Paraffin wax was first created in 1830 by the German chemist Karl von Reichenbach when he tried to develop the means to efficiently separate and refine the waxy substances naturally occurring in petroleum.
Paraffin represented a major advance in the candlemaking industry because it burned cleanly and reliably and was cheaper to manufacture than any other candle fuel.
Paraffin wax initially suffered from a low melting point; however, this shortcoming was later remedied by the addition of harder stearic acid.
The production of paraffin wax enjoyed a boom in the early 20th century as a result of the growth of the oil and meatpacking industries which created paraffin and stearic acid as byproducts.
MANUFACTURING OF PARAFFIN:
The feedstock for paraffin is slack wax, which is a mixture of oil and wax, a byproduct from the refining of lubricating oil.
The first step in making paraffin wax is to remove the oil (de-oiling or de-waxing) from the slack wax. The oil is separated by crystallization.
Most commonly, the slack wax is heated, mixed with one or more solvents such as a ketone and then cooled.
As it cools, wax crystallizes out of the solution, leaving only oil.
This mixture is filtered into two streams: solid (wax plus some solvent) and liquid (oil and solvent). After the solvent is recovered by distillation, the resulting products are called "product wax" (or "press wax") and "foots oil".
The lower the percentage of oil in the wax, the more refined it is considered (semi-refined versus fully refined).
The product wax may be further processed to remove colors and odors.
The wax may finally be blended together to give certain desired properties such as melt point and penetration.
Paraffin wax is sold in either liquid or solid form.
Production Methods: Light mineral oil is obtained by the distillation of petroleum.
A suitable stabilizer may be added to the oil.
APPLICATIONS OF PARAFFIN:
In industrial applications, it is often useful to modify the crystal properties of the paraffin wax, typically by adding branching to the existing carbon backbone chain.
The modification is usually done with additives, such as EVA copolymers, microcrystalline wax, or forms of polyethylene.
The branched properties result in a modified paraffin with a higher viscosity, smaller crystalline structure, and modified functional properties.
Pure paraffin wax is rarely used for carving original models for casting metal and other materials in the lost wax process, as it is relatively brittle at room temperature and presents the risks of chipping and breakage when worked.
Soft and pliable waxes, like beeswax, may be preferred for such sculpture, but "investment casting waxes," often paraffin-based, are expressly formulated for the purpose.
In a histology or pathology laboratory, paraffin wax is used to impregnate tissue prior to sectioning thin samples of tissue.
Water is removed from the tissue through ascending strengths of alcohol (75% to absolute) and the tissue is cleared in an organic solvent such as xylene.
The tissue is then placed in paraffin wax for a number of hours and then set in a mold with wax to cool and solidify; sections are then cut on a microtome.
Paraffin is used in cosmetics as a beeswax substitute
Paraffin is a solid mixture of hydrocarbons obtained from petroleum, although Paraffin can also be obtained from wood or coal.
Pure paraffin is harmless to the skin, but the presence of impurities may result in irritation, eczemas, and other skin problems.
Pharmaceutical Applications:
PARAFFIN is used in applications similar to those of mineral oil.
PARAFFIN is used primarily as an excipient in topical pharmaceutical formulations where its emollient properties are exploited in ointment bases.
PARAFFIN is also used in ophthalmic formulations.
PARAFFIN is additionally used in oil-inwater and polyethlylene glycol/glycerol emulsions; as a solvent and lubricant in capsules and tablets; as a solvent and penetration enhancer in transdermal preparations;and as the oily medium used in the microencapsulation of many drugs.
PARAFFIN is also used in cosmetics and certain food products.
OTHER USES OF PARAFFIN:
• Candle-making
• Wax carving
• Bicycle chain lubrication
• Coatings for waxed paper or waxed cotton
• Food-grade paraffin wax:
1. Shiny coating used in candy-making; although edible, it is nondigestible, passing through the body without being broken down
2. Coating for many kinds of hard cheese, like Edam cheese
3. Sealant for jars, cans, and bottles
4. Chewing gum additive
• Investment casting
• Anti-caking agent, moisture repellent, and dustbinding coatings for fertilizers
• Agent for preparation of specimens for histology
• Bullet lubricant – with other ingredients, such as olive oil and beeswax
• Phlegmatizing agent, commonly used to stabilise/desensitize high explosives such as RDX
• Crayons
• Solid propellant for hybrid rocket motors
• Component of surfboard wax, ski wax, and skateboard wax
• Ink. Used as the basis for solid ink different color blocks of wax for thermal printers.
The wax is melted and then sprayed on the paper producing images with a shiny surface
• Microwax:food additive, a glazing agent with E number E905
• Forensic investigations: the nitrate test uses paraffin wax to detect nitrates and nitrites on the hand of a shooting suspect
• Antiozonant agents: blends of paraffin and micro waxes are used in rubber compounds to prevent cracking of the rubber; the admixture of wax migrates to the surface of the product and forms a protective layer.
The layer can also act as a release agent, helping the product separate from its mould.
• Mechanical thermostats and actuators, as an expansion medium for activating such devices
• As a potting material to encapsulate electronic components such as guitar pickups, transformers, and inductors, to prevent moisture ingress and to reduce electromagnetically-induced acoustic noise and microphonic effects
• Textile manufacturing processes, such as that used for Eisengarn thread.
• Thickening agent in many paintballs
• Moisturiser in toiletries and cosmetics such as Vaseline.
• Prevents oxidation on the surface of polished steel and iron
• Phase change material for thermal energy storage
• Used by MESSENGER (Mercury spacecraft), when the spacecraft was unable to radiate excessive heat.
• Manufacture of boiled leather armor and books
• Neutron radiation shielding
• Wax baths for occupational and physical therapies, and cosmetic treatments
• Used for wood finishing
• Used as a fuel for fire breathing
• Used in Lava Lamps
CAS Number : 64771-71-7
EINECS: 265-232-9
FUNCTIONS OF PARAFFIN:
Glazing Agent - A waxy coating which provides protection and prevents water loss
PARAFFIN is a type of wax produced by de-oiling petrolatum, as part of the petroleum refining process.
PARAFFIN is often used in industries such as tire and rubber, candles, adhesives, corrugated boards, cosmetics, castings, and a host of others.
Refineries may also utilize blending facilities to combine paraffin and microcrystalline waxes.
This type of activity is prevalent especially for industries such as tire and rubber.
PARAFFIN is used in sports too, specifically in ice hockey and snowboarding.
PARAFFIN is applied to the friction tape of an ice hockey stick to prevent degradation of the tape due to water destroying the glue on the tape and also to increase control of the hockey puck due to the wax’s adhesive quality.
PARAFFIN is also applied to the underside of snowboards to reduce friction and increase the gliding ability of the board, making it easier to control and diminishing the fatigue of the rider.
In foods, PARAFFIN is used as a glazing agent with E number 905.
The waxed/surface treated fruit and vegetables, chewing gum, hard and soft confectionery, and rind of ripened cheese.
PARAFFIN is approved to use as food additive in EU.
SAFETY INFORMATION ABOUT PARAFFIN:
PARAFFIN is used in applications similar to those of mineral oil.
PARAFFIN is considered safe by the FDA for direct use in foods.
However, oral ingestion of large doses of light mineral oil or chronic consumption may be harmful.
Chronic use may impair appetite and interfere with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
PARAFFIN is absorbed to some extent when emulsified, leading to granulomatous reactions.
Oral and intranasal use of mineral oil or products containing mineral oil by infants or children is not recommended because of the possible danger of causing lipoid pneumonia.
First aid measures:
Description of first aid measures:
If inhaled:
Move the victim into fresh air.
If breathing is difficult, give oxygen.
If not breathing, give artificial respiration and consult a doctor immediately.
Do not use mouth to mouth resuscitation if the victim ingested or inhaled the chemical.
Following skin contact:
Take off contaminated clothing immediately.
Wash off with soap and plenty of water.
Consult a doctor.
Following eye contact:
Rinse with pure water for at least 15 minutes.
Consult a doctor.
Following ingestion:
Rinse mouth with water.
Do not induce vomiting.
Never give anything by mouth to an unconscious person.
Call a doctor or Poison Control Center immediately.
Firefighting measures:
Extinguishing media:
Use dry chemical, carbon dioxide or alcohol-resistant foam.
Advice for firefighters:
Wear self-contained breathing apparatus for firefighting if necessary.
Accidental release measures:
Personal precautions, protective equipment and emergency procedures:
Avoid dust formation.
Avoid breathing mist, gas or vapours.
Avoid contacting with skin and eye.
Use personal protective equipment.
Wear chemical impermeable gloves.
Ensure adequate ventilation.
Remove all sources of ignition.
Evacuate personnel to safe areas.
Keep people away from and upwind of spill/leak.
Environmental precautions:
Prevent further spillage or leakage if it is safe to do so.
Do not let the chemical enter drains.
Discharge into the environment must be avoided.
Methods and materials for containment and cleaning up:
Collect and arrange disposal.
Keep the chemical in suitable and closed containers for disposal.
Remove all sources of ignition.
Use spark-proof tools and explosion-proof equipment.
Adhered or collected material should be promptly disposed of, in accordance with appropriate laws and regulations.
Handling and storage:
Precautions for safe handling:
Handling in a well ventilated place.
Wear suitable protective clothing.
Avoid contact with skin and eyes.
Avoid formation of dust and aerosols.
Use non-sparking tools.
Prevent fire caused by electrostatic discharge steam.
Conditions for safe storage, including any incompatibilities
Store the container tightly closed in a dry, cool and well-ventilated place.
Store apart from foodstuff containers or incompatible materials.
Exposure controls/personal protection:
Control parameters:
Exposure controls
Ensure adequate ventilation.
Handle in accordance with good industrial hygiene and safety practice.
Set up emergency exits and the risk-elimination area.
Individual protection measures:
Eye/face protection:
Wear tightly fitting safety goggles with side-shields conforming to EN 166(EU) or NIOSH (US).
Skin protection:
Wear fire/flame resistant and impervious clothing.
Handle with gloves.
Gloves must be inspected prior to use.
Wash and dry hands.
The selected protective gloves have to satisfy the specifications of EU Directive 89/686/EEC and the standard EN 374 derived from it.
Respiratory protection:
If the exposure limits are exceeded, irritation or other symptoms are experienced, use a full-face respirator.
Disposal considerations:
Disposal methods:
Product:
The material can be disposed of by removal to a licensed chemical destruction plant or by controlled incineration with flue gas scrubbing.
Do not contaminate water, foodstuffs, feed or seed by storage or disposal.
Do not discharge to sewer systems.
Contaminated packaging:
Containers can be triply rinsed (or equivalent) and offered for recycling or reconditioning. Alternatively, the packaging can be punctured to make it unusable for other purposes and then be disposed of in a sanitary landfill.
Controlled incineration with flue gas scrubbing is possible for combustible packaging materials.
STORAGE OF PARAFFIN:
PARAFFIN undergoes oxidation when exposed to heat and light.
Oxidation begins with the formation of peroxides, exhibiting an ‘induction period’.
Under typical storage conditions, the induction period may take months or years.
However, once a trace of peroxide is formed, further oxidation is autocatalytic and proceeds very rapidly.
Oxidation results in the formation of aldehydes and organic acids, which impart taste and odor.
The USP32–NF27 permits the addition of suitable stabilizers to retard oxidation, butylated hydroxyanisole, butylated hydroxytoluene, and alpha tocopherol being the most commonly used antioxidants.
PARAFFIN may be sterilized by dry heat.
PARAFFIN should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place and protected from light.
Incompatibilities: Incompatible with strong oxidizing agents.
CAS Number : 64771-71-7
EINECS: 265-232-9
SYNONYMS OF PARAFFIN:
WASTE MINERAL OIL;
MINERAL OIL EXTRA HEAVY;
MINERAL OIL, WHITE, HEAVY;
MINERAL OIL, WHITE;MINERAL OIL STANDARD MIXTURE TYPE A AND B;
MINERAL OIL MEDIUM;
MINERAL OIL, LIGHT, NO 5;
MINERAL OIL, LIGHT
PETROLATUM LIQUID;
OIL, MINERAL;
OIL BATH FILLING;
NUJOL;PARAFFIN;
PARAFFIN LIQUID;
PARAFFIN OIL, HEAVY
