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E905 Microcrystalline wax is used in controlled quantities in food and cosmetic products and is considered safe for use.
E905 Microcrystalline wax is widely used in cosmetics (as a thickener and emollient), in food-related coatings (via food-grade grades), in candles, polishes, and various industrial applications.
E905 Microcrystalline wax is used as a glazing agent, coating, or anti-caking agent.
CAS Number: 63231-60-7
Additional CAS Number Sometimes Associated with Petroleum Waxes: 8002-74-2
EC Number / EINECS: 264-038-1
Additional EC Number Sometimes Used for Paraffin Waxes: 232-315-6
Molecular Formula: Variable mixture of hydrocarbons; commonly represented as CnH2n+2
Carbon Chain Range: Approximately C20–C50
Average Molecular Weight: Typically >500 g/mol
Molecular Weight Range: Approximately 275–600 g/mol depending on composition
SYNONYMS:
Microcrystalline Wax, Petroleum Wax, Hydrocarbon Wax, Microwax, Wax Microcrystalline, Microcrystalline Paraffin Wax, Paraffinum Microcristallinum, Synthetic Wax, Synthetic Paraffin, Fischer-Tropsch Wax, Petroleum-derived Wax, Refined Petroleum Wax, Cera Microcristallina, E905 (food additive category), Microcrystalline wax (INCI/US), Microcrystalline wax, RefChem:42041, Wax, microcrystalline, Petroleum wax, microcrystalline, A MIXTURE OF STRAIGHT-CHAIN, BRANCHED-CHAIN, AND CYCLIC HYDROCARBONS OBTAINED BY SOLVENT FRACTIONATION OF THE STILL BOTTOM FRACTION OF PETROLEUM, E-905C(I), EC 264-038-1, EINECS 264-038-1, INS NO.905C(I), INS-905C(I), MICROCRYSTALLINE WAX (II), MICROCRYSTALLINE WAX (MART.), MICROCRYSTALLINE WAX (USP-RS), MICROWAX, Microcrystalline paraffin waxes and hydrocarbon waxes, UNII-XOF597Q3KY, WAX,MICROCRYSTALLINE, XOF597Q3KY
E905 Microcrystalline wax is a refined form of paraffin wax, obtained from the distillation of crude oil.
E905 Microcrystalline wax has a higher elasticity and viscosity than traditional paraffin wax, which makes it more useful in many industrial applications, including the food industry.
Because of its properties, E905 Microcrystalline wax is valued for its ability to form protective coatings that are both durable and flexible.
E905 Microcrystalline wax is a food additive recognized as safe by international regulatory bodies, including the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).
E905 Microcrystalline wax is a food additive classified in the 'Other' category in the European Union.
E905 Microcrystalline wax is a mixture of long-chain saturated hydrocarbons, mainly branched alkanes and cycloalkanes, obtained from petroleum through refining processes.
E905 Microcrystalline wax's origin is synthetic, derived from crude oil, from which wax fractions are separated by distillation and dewaxing.
Industrially, E905 Microcrystalline wax is obtained by dewaxing lubricating oils, followed by deodorization and purification to remove aromatic compounds and other contaminants.
Physicochemical properties of E905 Microcrystalline wax include a melting point between 60 and 90 °C, insolubility in water, solubility in organic solvents, and a plastic and malleable texture.
E905 Microcrystalline wax's main function in foods is as a coating agent, providing shine and surface protection, and as a release agent to prevent foods from sticking to molds or packaging.
E905 Microcrystalline wax is also used as a glazing agent on fruits and vegetables, and as a sealant in supplement capsules.
The history of E905 Microcrystalline wax's use as a food additive dates back to the mid-20th century, and it was approved in the EU after evaluations by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA).
EFSA established an Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) of 0-10 mg/kg body weight for E905 Microcrystalline wax, based on chronic toxicity studies in animals that showed no significant adverse effects.
WHO also considers it safe at authorized use levels.
Regarding overall safety assessment, E905 Microcrystalline wax is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the US FDA, although in the EU its use is restricted to certain food categories.
On labeling, it must appear as 'E905 Microcrystalline wax' or 'E905'.
It is important to note that although E905 Microcrystalline wax is a petroleum derivative, purification processes ensure the absence of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and other toxic contaminants.
In summary, E905 Microcrystalline wax is a safe and effective additive for specific uses in the food industry.
E905 Microcrystalline wax is produced during petroleum refining, particularly from the de-oiling of petrolatum.
Compared with paraffin wax, E905 Microcrystalline wax contains a larger proportion of branched and cyclic hydrocarbons.
This gives E905 Microcrystalline wax superior flexibility, cohesiveness, and plasticity.
E905 Microcrystalline wax may vary from soft and sticky to hard and brittle depending on refining level and hydrocarbon composition.
Different grades are manufactured for food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and industrial purposes.
Because of its excellent barrier properties, E905 Microcrystalline wax is often combined with other waxes and resins to create specialized coatings and formulations.
E905 Microcrystalline wax is a highly refined petroleum-derived wax composed mainly of saturated hydrocarbons with predominantly branched-chain structures.
E905 Microcrystalline wax is widely used in the food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, packaging, and industrial sectors because of its protective, glossy, moisture-resistant, and stabilizing properties.
In food applications, E905 Microcrystalline wax functions mainly as a glazing agent, coating agent, antifoaming agent, and surface finishing agent.
E905 Microcrystalline wax differs from ordinary paraffin wax because it has much smaller crystal structures, higher viscosity, greater flexibility, better adhesion, and improved elasticity.
These characteristics make E905 Microcrystalline wax especially useful where durable and flexible coatings are required.
The substance is approved as a food additive in the European Union under the code E905, specifically E905c(i) for E905 Microcrystalline wax.
E905 Microcrystalline wax is a by-product of refining heavy distillates from lubricant oil production as part of the petroleum refining process.
Wax refineries produce E905 Microcrystalline wax by de-oiling Petrolatum, a mineral oil jelly better known as Petroleum Jelly or Vaseline.
E905 Microcrystalline wax is an Emollient, texture enhancer, anti-frizz agent, strengthener, and Barrier Support.
Intended Function of E905 Microcrystalline wax: Solid structurant/occlusive film former that increases viscosity, stabilizes oily phases, and improves payoff and wear.
E905 Microcrystalline wax is a highly refined, petroleum-derived hydrocarbon wax characterized by short-chain branching and a high proportion of iso- and cyclo-alkanes.
Compared with straight-chain paraffin waxes, E905 Microcrystalline wax forms much smaller crystalline domains, which translates into greater tack, cohesion, and oil-binding capacity — properties formulators exploit to solidify anhydrous systems, stabilize emulsions’ oil phases, and create transfer-resistant films.
E905 Microcrystalline wax is a mineral wax obtained as a by-product of the petroleum refining process.
E905 Microcrystalline wax is obtained during petroleum refining by de-oiling of crude oil.
E905 Microcrystalline wax has branched, long chain and naphthalic hydrocarbons that give it a fine crystalline structure.
As the name suggests, E905 Microcrystalline wax is very fine or microscopic.
It is also known as mineral wax, E905 Microcrystalline wax, earth wax, paraffin wax (mineral oil based), microwax, petroleum wax or E905.
E905 Microcrystalline wax is a purified mixture of solid, saturated, mostly branched chain hydrocarbons.
There are different types with melting points between about 60 and 100°C.
E905 Microcrystalline wax is lipophilic and therefore insoluble in water.
E905 Microcrystalline wax 6302 is a relatively high melting point wax that is a refined mixture of solid, saturated hydrocarbons obtained from petroleum.
E905 Microcrystalline wax feels very soft with high needle penetration, so it’s in slab form.
E905 Microcrystalline wax has a fine-grained crystal structure which renders it much more flexible than paraffin wax.
E905 Microcrystalline wax is REACH certified and complies with Colipa, E905 and FDA.
E905 Microcrystalline wax is a petroleum-derived wax created during the refining of crude oil into fuels.
E905 Microcrystalline wax has a fine crystalline structure, high melting point (typically 60–90°C), and excellent adhesive and oil-binding properties.
These characteristics make E905 Microcrystalline wax ideal for applications requiring flexibility, moisture resistance, and structural integrity.
E905 Microcrystalline wax is a food additive classified as halal.
E905 Microcrystalline wax is a refined mixture of solid hydrocarbons derived from petroleum.
E905 Microcrystalline wax is a versatile and essential ingredient in the food and cosmetic industries, valued for its stabilizing, moisturizing, and enhancing properties.
Its ability to improve product texture, appearance, and shelf life makes E905 Microcrystalline wax a valuable addition to a wide range of formulations.
E905 Microcrystalline wax is a type of refined wax derived from petroleum.
E905 Microcrystalline wax is valued for its fine crystalline structure and its versatility in various applications, including food and cosmetics.
USES and APPLICATIONS of E905 MICROCRYSTALLINE WAX:
Common food applications include: Surface coating of fruits such as melons, mangoes, papayas, pineapples, and avocados, Chewing gum base, Candy and confectionery coatings, Chocolate and decorative coatings, Surface finishing agents, Moisture barrier coatings, Antifoaming agent applications, Food packaging coatings.
E905 Microcrystalline wax forms a protective barrier that helps prevent dehydration, oxidation, and surface damage during transportation and storage.
Food additive as a coating agent uses of E905 Microcrystalline wax: E905 Microcrystalline wax is obtained from hydrocarbons and is used in the protection and preservation of citrus, melons, pineapples and other fresh exotic fruits, as well as in the surface treatment of chewing gum and some confectioneries.
E905 Microcrystalline wax is widely used in sealants, adhesives, laminates, polishes and rust prevention coatings.
The Rubber and Tyre industries use E905 Microcrystalline wax to modify the properties of Paraffin wax, such raising its melting point, or increasing its flexibility or opacity.
In the Art and Jewellery industries, E905 Microcrystalline waxes are used to make moulds in which to cast sculptures and jewellery such as rings.
E905 Microcrystalline wax is also used in crayons.
In the Sports industry, E905 Microcrystalline wax is applied to the friction tape of ice hockey sticks to protect the glue from water damage and to the foot of the stick to improve control of the hockey puck due to its adhesion qualities.
E905 Microcrystalline wax is also applied to the bottom of snowboards to reduce friction and improve the board’s ability to slide.
In the Personal Care industry, E905 Microcrystalline wax is used as an ingredient in and natural base for lipstick, ointments and skin care creams.
E905 Microcrystalline wax is a key component in the manufacture of Petrolatum (Petroleum Jelly) and is used to modify its properties.
In the pursuit of more environmentally friendly and renewable ingredients, some industries are turning to hybrid petrolatum, which combines vegetable-based oils and waxes with petroleum-based micro waxes.
Food Industry: E905 Microcrystalline wax is used as a protective outer coating.
Confectionery Industry: E905 Microcrystalline wax is used as a glazing agent and a base for chewing gum.
Pharmaceutical Industry: E905 Microcrystalline wax is used to coat tablets and capsules, protecting the medication against moisture damage.
Candle Industry: E905 Microcrystalline wax is used as a component in the manufacture of candles.
Wood Treatment Industry: E905 Microcrystalline wax is used in wood polish.
E905 Microcrystalline wax is used as a glazing and coating agent in candies, fruits, and as an ingredient in chewing gum.
E905 Microcrystalline wax is also used in the production of food packaging, where its barrier properties are particularly appreciated.
In addition, E905 Microcrystalline wax can be used to stabilize emulsions in products such as creams and sauces.
Compared to paraffin wax, E905 Microcrystalline wax is more flexible.
E905 Microcrystalline wax is used as an excipient in personal care products and cosmetics.
Their film-forming and hydrophobic (water-repellent) properties promote the formation of shine on the skin (e.g. lipstick).
E905 Microcrystalline wax also serves as a consistency factor in creams and protects the skin from moisture loss.
Since the wax is highly purified, E905 Microcrystalline wax is particularly well tolerated and does not cause skin irritation.
E905 Microcrystalline wax also plays an important role in food packaging products, e.g. in the surface treatment of fruits.
Furthermore, E905 Microcrystalline wax is suitable for candle making, sealants, sealing and for technical applications (e.g. as a polishing agent).
In skincare, E905 Microcrystalline wax functions primarily as an occlusive structurant and rheology/texture modifier: it thickens balms and ointments, boosts payoff in sticks, reduces syneresis by immobilizing oils and butters, and improves rub-resistance for long-wear formats.
Properly refined grades used in cosmetics are highly purified and designed to meet stringent compositional specifications, distinguishing them from industrial waxes.
In hair care and color cosmetics, E905 Microcrystalline wax provides shape memory and hold by depositing a flexible film that resists deformation and humidity.
E905 Microcrystalline wax is widely used in pomades, waxes, and clays for frizz control and definition; in mascaras and brow products to increase pick-up, lash/body adhesion, and transfer resistance; and in lipsticks and sun sticks to tune hardness and glide while minimizing sweating.
E905 Microcrystalline wax's higher viscosity and elasticity versus paraffin help lock volatile carriers and pigments in a coherent matrix — useful for long-wear claims — while its small crystal size minimizes graininess in high-wax systems.
Common Applications of E905 Microcrystalline wax: Lipsticks/balms, anhydrous salves and ointments, sun sticks, pomades/waxes, mascaras/brow stylers, pressed/cream color bases, depilatory wax systems.
E905 Microcrystalline wax is used in controlled quantities in food and cosmetic products and is considered safe for use.
E905 Microcrystalline wax is approved by regulatory agencies in various countries for its applications.
The pharmaceutical, food processing and cosmetics industry use our pure E905 Microcrystalline waxes as a base element for a productive diversity in products: from chewing gum to lipstick and from moisturizing creams to packaging in the food processing industry.
E905 Microcrystalline wax is widely used in cosmetics (as a thickener and emollient), in food-related coatings (via food-grade grades), in candles, polishes, and various industrial applications.
E905 Microcrystalline wax is used as a glazing agent, coating, or anti-caking agent.
E905 Microcrystalline wax is generally considered halal as it is not derived from animal sources and does not contain any haram substances.
E905 Microcrystalline wax is suitable for use in cream, lip care, lipsticks and other color cosmetic applications.
-Printing & Packaging Industry uses of E905 Microcrystalline wax:
In the Printing industry, E905 Microcrystalline wax is used as a slip agent to reduce friction in printing ink.
E905 Microcrystalline wax is also used in corrugated board.
-Cosmetic Applications of E905 Microcrystalline wax:
E905 Microcrystalline wax is extensively used in cosmetics because of its texture-enhancing and stabilizing properties.
Common cosmetic uses include: Lipsticks, Lip balms, Creams, Ointments, Eyeliners, Mascaras, Skin creams, Lotions, Pressed powders.
E905 Microcrystalline wax improves consistency, texture, spreadability, stability, and moisture resistance.
-Pharmaceutical Uses of E905 Microcrystalline wax:
In pharmaceutical products, E905 Microcrystalline wax is used as: Tablet coating material, Ointment base, Cream stabilizer, Controlled-release coating, Moisture barrier component.
E905 Microcrystalline wax helps protect sensitive active ingredients and improves product stability.
-Industrial Uses of E905 Microcrystalline wax:
Industrial applications include: Candle manufacturing, Rubber processing, Tire industry, Adhesives, Corrugated board coatings, Polishes, Laminated paper products, Sealants, Waterproofing materials, Electrical insulation, Casting compounds.
Its adhesive and moisture-resistant properties make E905 Microcrystalline wax valuable in packaging and protective coating technologies.
-Food Industry Uses of E905 Microcrystalline wax:
E905 Microcrystalline wax is widely used in the food industry as a glazing and coating agent.
E905 Microcrystalline wax improves visual appearance, reduces moisture loss, and increases shelf life.
BENEFITS and USES of E905 MICROCRYSTALLINE WAX:
Food Grade:
E905 Microcrystalline wax is used as a food additive, providing stability and improving texture in various food products.
Cosmetic Grade:
E905 Microcrystalline wax is commonly used in cosmetic products for its moisturizing properties, enhancing the texture and stability of creams, lotions, and lip balms.
Wax Additive:
E905 Microcrystalline wax is used to enhance the properties of other waxes, providing improved flexibility and higher melting points.
Moisturizing:
In cosmetics, E905 Microcrystalline wax helps to retain moisture, providing a smooth and supple feel to the skin.
Stabilizer:
E905 Microcrystalline wax acts as a stabilizer in both food and cosmetic formulations, helping to maintain consistency and quality.
Emulsifier:
E905 Microcrystalline wax is used as an emulsifier, aiding in the blending of ingredients and improving product texture.
Preservative:
E905 Microcrystalline wax helps to preserve the freshness and extend the shelf life of products by preventing moisture loss and oxidation.
Gloss Enhancer:
In food and cosmetic products, E905 Microcrystalline wax provides a glossy finish, enhancing visual appeal and product quality.
E905 MICROCRYSTALLINE WAX AND ITS FUNCTIONS IN FOOD
In the food industry, E905 Microcrystalline wax is used mainly for its protective and stabilizing properties.
E905 Microcrystalline wax forms protective barriers on the surface of food to prevent moisture loss and maintain the consistency of products.
This is especially important for products that are exposed to high temperatures and moisture.
PROPERTIES of E905 MICROCRYSTALLINE WAX:
E905 Microcrystalline wax is typically a dark yellow or brown colour, but may have its odour or colour removed after filtration or hydro-treating, depending on the specifications of its end use.
E905 Microcrystalline waxes generally fall into two categories: Laminating grades (melting point of 60-80 degrees Celsius) and hardening grades (80-93 degrees Celsius).
Both grades can range in colour from white to brown, depending on the level of refining.
Refineries may combine Paraffin and E905 Microcrystalline waxes.
Compared to Paraffin wax, E905 Microcrystalline wax has finer crystals, is generally darker, denser and more viscous, more elastic and adhesive and has a higher melting point.
CHARACTERISTICS of E905 MICROCRYSTALLINE WAX:
E905 Microcrystalline wax has a finer crystal structure than standard paraffin wax, giving it improved flexibility and binding capacity.
E905 Microcrystalline wax is more adhesive, denser, and more elastic than conventional paraffin waxes.
Because of these characteristics, E905 Microcrystalline wax forms durable protective coatings with excellent resistance to moisture and oxidation.
E905 Microcrystalline wax creates thin, invisible films on food surfaces that help preserve freshness and improve appearance.
E905 Microcrystalline wax also provides gloss and shine to confectionery products and fruits.
Due to its high oil-binding ability, E905 Microcrystalline wax is frequently used in cosmetics and pharmaceutical formulations.
Another important characteristic is E905 Microcrystalline wax's stability.
E905 Microcrystalline wax remains chemically stable under normal storage and handling conditions and has relatively low reactivity due to its saturated hydrocarbon composition.
PROPERTIES of E905 MICROCRYSTALLINE WAX:
E905 Microcrystalline wax is distinguished by its unique ability to bind oils and fats, preventing them from leaking out of food products.
E905 Microcrystalline wax also has excellent moisture barrier properties, which prolongs the shelf life and freshness of food.
E905 Microcrystalline wax's viscosity and flexibility allow for easy application and molding.
BENEFITS of E905 MICROCRYSTALLINE WAX:
E905 Microcrystalline wax offers several important benefits:
Provides glossy and attractive surface appearance
E905 Microcrystalline wax prevents moisture loss
E905 Microcrystalline wax extends shelf life of foods
E905 Microcrystalline wax protects against oxidation
E905 Microcrystalline wax enhances texture and stability
E905 Microcrystalline wax improves flexibility of coatings
Excellent oil-binding capacity
High adhesion to surfaces
Chemically stable
Water-resistant
Good barrier properties
E905 Microcrystalline wax helps maintain freshness
E905 Microcrystalline wax improves cosmetic consistency
Compatible with oils and fats
Useful in high-temperature applications
PHYSICAL and CHEMICAL PROPERTIES of E905 MICROCRYSTALLINE WAX:
CAS Number: 63231-60-7
Additional CAS Number Sometimes Associated with Petroleum Waxes: 8002-74-2
EC Number / EINECS: 264-038-1
Additional EC Number Sometimes Used for Paraffin Waxes: 232-315-6
Molecular Formula Variable mixture of hydrocarbons; commonly represented as CnH2n+2
Carbon Chain Range: Approximately C20–C50
Average Molecular Weight: Typically >500 g/mol
Molecular Weight Range: Approximately 275–600 g/mol depending on composition
Food Additive Code: E905
INS Number: INS 905c(i)
CAS Number: 63231-60-7
Additional CAS Number Sometimes Associated with Petroleum Waxes: 8002-74-2
EC Number / EINECS: 264-038-1
Additional EC Number Sometimes Used for Paraffin Waxes: 232-315-6
Molecular Formula: Variable mixture of hydrocarbons; commonly represented as CnH2n+2
Carbon Chain Range: Approximately C20–C50
Average Molecular Weight: Typically >500 g/mol
Molecular Weight Range: Approximately 275–600 g/mol depending on composition
Physical State: Solid
Appearance: White, off-white, colorless, or slightly amber wax
Structure: Fine microcrystalline structure
Odor: Odorless
Taste: Tasteless
Transparency: Somewhat translucent
Texture: Sticky, flexible, tacky, dense
Crystal Structure: Very small crystals
Solubility in Water: Insoluble
Solubility in Ethanol: Very slightly soluble
Solubility in Ether: Sparingly soluble
Solubility in Hexane: Sparingly soluble
Solubility in Oils: Miscible with oils and liquid paraffin
Melting Range: Approximately 60–102°C
Refractive Index: 1.434–1.448
Density: Higher than paraffin wax
Viscosity: High viscosity
Elasticity: High
Adhesion: Excellent surface adhesion
Water Resistance: Excellent
Moisture Barrier Property: Excellent
Oxidation Stability: Good
Heat Stability: Good under normal food processing conditions
Sulfur Content: Maximum 0.4%
Residue on Ignition: Maximum 0.1%
Average Carbon Number: Mainly hydrocarbons above C25
Chemical Nature: Saturated hydrocarbons
Composition: Branched paraffinic and naphthenic hydrocarbons
Flammability: Combustible
UV Absorbance Limits: Controlled to minimize PAHs
Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons: Strictly limited in food-grade material
FIRST AID MEASURES of E905 MICROCRYSTALLINE WAX:
-Description of first-aid measures
*General advice:
Show this material safety data sheet to the doctor in attendance.
*If inhaled:
After inhalation:
Fresh air.
*In case of skin contact:
Take off immediately all contaminated clothing.
Rinse skin with
water/ shower.
*In case of eye contact:
After eye contact:
Rinse out with plenty of water.
Call in ophthalmologist.
Remove contact lenses.
*If swallowed:
After swallowing:
Immediately make victim drink water (two glasses at most).
Consult a physician.
-Indication of any immediate medical attention and special treatment needed.
No data available
ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES of E905 MICROCRYSTALLINE WAX:
-Environmental precautions:
Do not let product enter drains.
-Methods and materials for containment and cleaning up:
Cover drains.
Collect, bind, and pump off spills.
Observe possible material restrictions.
Take up dry.
Dispose of properly.
Clean up affected area.
FIRE FIGHTING MEASURES of E905 MICROCRYSTALLINE WAX:
-Extinguishing media:
*Suitable extinguishing media:
Carbon dioxide (CO2)
Foam
Dry powder
*Unsuitable extinguishing media:
For this substance/mixture no limitations of extinguishing agents are given.
-Further information:
Prevent fire extinguishing water from contaminating surface water or the ground water system.
EXPOSURE CONTROLS/PERSONAL PROTECTION of E905 MICROCRYSTALLINE WAX:
-Control parameters:
--Ingredients with workplace control parameters:
-Exposure controls:
--Personal protective equipment:
*Eye/face protection:
Use equipment for eye protection.
Safety glasses
*Body Protection:
protective clothing
*Respiratory protection:
Recommended Filter type: Filter A
-Control of environmental exposure:
Do not let product enter drains.
HANDLING and STORAGE of E905 MICROCRYSTALLINE WAX:
-Conditions for safe storage, including any incompatibilities:
*Storage conditions:
Tightly closed.
Dry.
STABILITY and REACTIVITY of E905 MICROCRYSTALLINE WAX:
-Chemical stability:
The product is chemically stable under standard ambient conditions (room temperature).
-Possibility of hazardous reactions:
No data available
