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E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax is used as an internal and external lubricant in the production of PVC products.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax is applied to the surfaces of certain fruits to enhance their appearance and extend shelf life.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax is primarily used as a glazing agent to seal the surface of food products and provide a shiny protective coating.
CAS Number: 68441-17-8
EC Number: 614-498-8
Chemical Formula: Variable polymeric structure (no fixed molecular formula)
General Formula: Oxidized polyethylene polymer
Molecular Weight: Variable depending on polymer chain length and oxidation degree
SYNONYMS:
Oxidised Polyethylene Wax, Oxidized Polyethylene Wax, Oxidized Polyethylene, Oxidised Polyethylene, Polyethylene Wax Oxidized, Polyethylene Wax Oxidised, Polyethylene Oxidized, Polyethylene Oxidised, Ethene Homopolymer Oxidized, Ethene Homopolymer Oxidised, Polyolefin Wax, Oxidized PE Wax, OPE Wax, OPEW, Poe, Ployoxyethylene, Oxidized polyethylene, Oxidizedpolyethylene, Oxidizedpolyethylenewaxes, Ethene, homopolymer, oxidized, Polyethylene,oxidised, Oxidizedpolyethylenewax, Ethene,homopolymer,oxidized, Oxidisedpolyethylenewax, Polyethylene, oxidiz, Oxidized polyethylene wax, Poly(ethylene) oxidized, Polyethylene, oxidized
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene Wax is a synthetic food additive mainly used as a glazing and surface-coating agent in the food industry.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax is produced through the controlled oxidation of polyethylene wax, resulting in a more polar material with improved emulsifying, adhesion, and protective properties.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax is commonly applied to the surface of fresh fruits and vegetables to reduce moisture loss, improve appearance, enhance gloss, and extend shelf life.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax forms a thin protective coating that helps preserve freshness during transportation and storage.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax is considered chemically stable, water-resistant, and relatively inert under normal conditions of use.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax is a product of ethylene polymerization, additive, processing and technological additive.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax contains acidic groups in its structure.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax has a high degree of crystallinity.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax is available in the form of micro granules.
The use of E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax is especially important in the textile industry.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax is an approved food additive based on oxidised beeswax, used as a glazing agent on fruits, confectionery, and other food products.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax refers to oxidised beeswax, a natural food additive obtained through the controlled oxidation of regular beeswax (E901).
Within the European Union, E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax is approved as a food additive but only for specific applications and food categories.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax is typically a low-density polyethylene polymer that has been chemically modified to increase polarity, enabling it to be emulsified in water.
A simplified chemical structure of E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax is below, exhibiting possible hydroxyl, carbonyl, carboxyl, and aldehyde groups that increase polarity.
Other types of waxes, such as paraffin and carnauba wax, contain few to no polar groups that enable them to be used in water-based formulations.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax is obtained by oxidation of polyethylene wax.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax molecules have polar groups like carbonyl groups and hydroxyl groups, a property which increases the compatibility with fillers, pigments, and polar resins.
Wettability and dispersibility of E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax are also better than polyethylene wax.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax is a low adhesive and hard polymer which has good chemical and heat stability, high softening point and also good lubricant effect.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax (OPE Wax) is highly versatile synthetic material that has become an essential additive across a wide range of industries.
The E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax combined with functional groups such as carboxyl and hydroxyl.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax, produced by the controlled oxidation of polyethylene wax, OPE Wax gains enhanced polarity, hardness, and emulsifiability.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax belongs to the broader family of polyethylene waxes, which are low molecular weight polyethylene materials specifically engineered for wax-like behavior.
The oxidation process improves polarity and allows E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax to interact more effectively with pigments, coatings, water emulsions, and polymer matrices.
Unlike natural waxes such as beeswax or carnauba wax, E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax is fully synthetic and petroleum-derived.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax is approved mainly for external surface treatment uses in foods within the European Union.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax is typically used in very small quantities and remains mostly on the outer surface of treated produce.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax is widely valued in industrial sectors because of its balance of hardness, flexibility, lubricity, and processing efficiency.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax is low molecular weight ethylene derived polymer that is used in food preparation as a protective and water-impermeable coating for citrus fruits (oranges, lemons, grapefruit etc.).
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax can be found in foods such as bakery products, dietary supplements, nutrients, stabiliser in cereals, desserts, flour, lard, and dry vinegars, and as an anti-caking agent in table salt.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax is approved to use as food additive in EU.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax is a synthetic wax derived from polyethylene, an ethylene polymer.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax is obtained by controlled oxidation of low-density polyethylene, introducing carboxyl, hydroxyl, and ester groups into the polymer chain, improving its polarity and emulsifying capacity.
Industrially, the process involves melting polyethylene with oxygen or air at elevated temperatures (150-200 °C) in the presence of catalysts, followed by purification and grinding to obtain a fine powder or flakes.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax's physicochemical properties include a melting point between 80-120 °C, insolubility in water, but solubility in hot organic solvents.
Historically, oxidized polyethylene wax was approved as a food additive in the European Union in the 1990s, following evaluations by EFSA and JECFA (WHO).
Regarding food safety, it is considered a low-risk additive, although its use within established limits is recommended.
In EU labeling, it must appear as 'oxidized polyethylene wax' or with the number E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax.
No significant adverse effects in humans have been reported, and toxicological studies show no genotoxicity or carcinogenicity.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax is an approved food additive based on oxidised beeswax, used as a glazing agent on fruits, confectionery, and other food products.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax is a white, odorless solid with excellent thermal stability, low volatility, and strong hardness.
USES and APPLICATIONS of E914 OXIDISED POLYETHYLENE WAX:
In food applications, E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax is authorized primarily for surface treatment purposes rather than as an ingredient incorporated directly into foods.
Besides food applications, E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax is widely used in plastics, coatings, inks, rubber processing, lubricants, adhesives, textiles, and industrial formulations because of its lubricating and protective characteristics.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax is used as an internal and external lubricant in the production of PVC products.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax is a synthetic compound used in the food industry primarily as a glazing agent.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax is applied to the surfaces of certain fruits to enhance their appearance and extend shelf life.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax is primarily used as a glazing agent to seal the surface of food products and provide a shiny protective coating.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax belongs to the category of glazing agents and release agents and is used in the food industry as well as in cosmetics.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax isused as lubricants in the processing of plastics , used in the field of hot melt road marking material, act as dispersant for masterbatches, pigment, carbon black, can be used as additive for various types of waxes like shoeshine, floor wax, car wax etc.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax can also be emulsified in water.
Emulsions are used in finishing of textiles to get a smooth surface which facilitates further production steps.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax has application in different industries such as Plastics Industry, Rubber Industry, Coatings and Paints, Textiles and Leather, Hot-Melt Adhesives and Cable and Wire Industry.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax is a high-performance, modified polyethylene wax that has undergone a controlled oxidation process to introduce functional polar groups, such as hydroxyl and carboxyl groups, into its structure.
This modification enhances E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax's compatibility with polar resins and improves its dispersibility, lubricity, and emulsifiability.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax offers both internal and external lubrication properties, making it widely used in various industrial applications.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax primarily functions as a coating, glazing, and mold release agent, forming a protective film on fruits and vegetables to reduce moisture loss and enhance shine.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax is also used in chewing gum manufacturing as a plasticizer.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax is primarily used in the food industry as a glazing and protective coating agent for fresh fruits and vegetables.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax is commonly applied to citrus fruits, melons, papaya, mangoes, avocados, pineapples, apples, and similar produce to reduce moisture loss and prolong shelf life.
In confectionery and chewing gum manufacturing, E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax may be used as a coating or texturizing aid.
In plastics manufacturing, E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax functions as a lubricant, dispersing agent, mold release agent, and processing aid.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax improves flow behavior during extrusion and molding operations while reducing friction and equipment wear.
In printing inks and coatings, E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax enhances abrasion resistance, gloss control, slip properties, and surface smoothness.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax is widely utilized in hot-melt adhesives because it improves viscosity control, flexibility, and processing characteristics.
In textile and leather industries, E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax may be incorporated into finishing treatments to improve water resistance and surface protection.
In cosmetics and personal care products, E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax can function as a consistency modifier and protective film former.
Industrial formulations also use E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax in floor polishes, paints, sealants, paper coatings, and packaging materials.
-Typical applications of E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax include:
Fresh fruits and vegetables (e.g., apples, citrus fruits) – to prevent moisture loss and extend shelf life
Confectionery and chocolate products – as a shine coating
Chewing gum – as a release agent and coating
Dietary supplements in tablet form – as a film coating
In the EU, the use of E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax is regulated by Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 on food additives and is restricted to specific food categories and maximum permitted levels.
-Food additive as a coating agent uses of E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax:
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax is obtained by chemical synthesis and is used in the protection and preservation of citrus, melons, pineapples and other fresh exocitc fruits.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax is used as a protective coating on fruits and vegetables
HOW IS E914 OXIDISED POLYETHYLENE WAX USED?
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax is used in applications ranging from inks to plastic compounds to floor and textile finishes.
In these applications, E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax is typically used in small weight percentages and helps provide one or more of the following properties.
Improved gloss
Increased abrasion resistance
Antiblocking
Surface lubricity
Water repellency
Enhanced emulsion formulation stability
Better adhesion to various substrates
FUNCTIONS of E914 OXIDISED POLYETHYLENE WAX:
Anti-caking Agent
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax prevents lumps from forming in food due to excess water.
They usually function as a water repellent or by absorbing excess moisture.
Glazing Agent
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax is a waxy coating which provides protection and prevents water loss
BENEFITS of E914 OXIDISED POLYETHYLENE WAX:
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax provides excellent moisture barrier protection.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax helps reduce dehydration and spoilage of fresh produce.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax significantly improves product appearance by creating a glossy protective surface.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax demonstrates excellent lubricating and anti-friction properties in industrial systems.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax possesses strong thermal and chemical stability.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax improves abrasion resistance and surface durability in coatings and inks.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax's emulsifying and dispersing capabilities improve compatibility in complex industrial formulations.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax contributes to longer shelf stability for coated products.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax is effective at relatively low usage levels.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax exhibits low toxicity and low biological absorption under intended conditions of use.
MAIN GRADES OF E914 OXIDISED POLYETHYLENE WAX:
Low Molecular Weight E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax
Lower viscosity, good dispersibility, excellent lubricating effect.
High Molecular Weight E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax
Higher hardness, higher melting point, better abrasion resistance.
Solid E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax
Produced as flakes, powder, or granules.
Easy to handle and dose in dry blends.
PURPOSE IN PRODUCTS of E914 OXIDISED POLYETHYLENE WAX:
• Glazing Agent:
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax is used to create a protective, glossy coating on the skins of fruits such as citrus fruits, melons, papayas, mangoes, avocados, and pineapples.
This coating helps preserve the fruit's freshness and improves E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax's visual appeal.
COMPATIBILITY WITH OTHER ADDITIVES of E914 OXIDISED POLYETHYLENE WAX:
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax is compatible with various other food additives, including other glazing agents and preservatives.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax's synergistic effects can enhance the overall quality and sensory attributes of food products.
NATURAL OCCURRENCE of E914 OXIDISED POLYETHYLENE WAX:
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax is a synthetic compound and does not occur naturally.
ALTERNATIVES AND SUBSTITUTES of E914 OXIDISED POLYETHYLENE WAX:
For those seeking alternatives to E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax, options include:
• Beeswax (E901):
A natural glazing agent derived from bees, used to provide a shiny appearance to food products.
• Carnauba Wax (E903):
A plant-derived glazing agent obtained from the leaves of the carnauba palm, known for its high melting point and glossy finish.
• Shellac (E904):
A natural resin secreted by the female lac bug, used as a glazing agent to provide a protective coating and glossy finish.
ORIGIN AND PRODUCTION of E914 OXIDISED POLYETHYLENE WAX:
Beeswax is produced by honeybees (Apis mellifera) and serves as the structural material for honeycombs in the hive.
To produce E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax, natural beeswax undergoes a controlled oxidation process, during which it is treated with oxygen or ozone.
This modifies certain chemical properties of E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax, particularly its consistency and adhesion characteristics.
The resulting product is a pale yellow to white, slightly brittle wax.
CHARACTERISTICS of E914 OXIDISED POLYETHYLENE WAX:
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax is valued because it combines the hardness and durability of polyethylene with improved surface polarity obtained through oxidation.
The oxidation process introduces oxygen-containing functional groups such as carboxyl and hydroxyl groups into the polymer structure.
These modifications improve adhesion, dispersion, emulsification, and compatibility with coatings and other materials.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax demonstrates excellent film-forming and gloss-enhancing properties.
When applied to fruits and vegetables, E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax creates a thin protective barrier that helps reduce dehydration and surface deterioration.
The additive also improves visual appearance by providing a polished glossy finish.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax possesses strong lubricating characteristics and reduces friction between surfaces.
This property is highly valuable in industrial processing applications involving plastics, rubber, coatings, and inks.
Because of E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax's high molecular weight and chemical inertness, oxidised polyethylene wax exhibits low absorption in biological systems.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax generally remains on the food surface and contributes minimal dietary exposure under authorized usage conditions.
E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax also demonstrates good thermal stability, chemical resistance, and compatibility with many industrial formulations.
KEY FEATURES of E914 OXIDISED POLYETHYLENE WAX:
Excellent lubrication and dispersing performance
High gloss and improved surface finish
Good thermal stability and anti-blocking characteristics
Enhanced compatibility with polar materials (e.g., PVC, EVA, rubber)
Emulsifiable grades available for aqueous systems
MAIN GRADES OF E914 OXIDISED POLYETHYLENE WAX:
1. Low Acid Value Grade (AV ≤ 10 mg KOH/g)
Description: Contains fewer polar functional groups, offering moderate oxidation.
Features: Excellent external lubrication, high gloss, and low viscosity.
Applications:
PVC extrusion and injection molding
Masterbatch and filler dispersions
PE and PP processing
2. Medium Acid Value Grade (AV 10–20 mg KOH/g)
Description: Balanced oxidation level that provides both internal and external lubrication.
Features: Good dispersibility, thermal stability, and improved compatibility with polar resins.
Applications:
PVC stabilizers and lubricants
Hot melt adhesives
Printing inks and coatings
3. High Acid Value Grade (AV ≥ 20 mg KOH/g)
Description: Highly oxidized with a greater number of polar groups for strong adhesion and emulsifiability.
Features: Excellent emulsifying property and strong bonding with polar materials.
Applications:
Emulsion waxes for textiles, leather, and polishes
Water-based coatings and paints
Paper surface treatment
4. Emulsifiable E914 Oxidised Polyethylene wax
Description: Specially formulated for water-based systems; forms stable emulsions.
Features: Fine particle size, high stability, and excellent gloss finish.
Applications:
Floor and furniture polishes
Textile softeners
Water-based inks and coatings
5. High-Density and Low-Density Grades
High-Density (HD-OPE Wax): Harder, higher melting point (110–120 °C), suitable for rigid PVC and engineering plastics.
Low-Density (LD-OPE Wax): Softer, lower melting point (90–105 °C), ideal for flexible PVC and wax emulsions.
PHYSICAL and CHEMICAL PROPERTIES of E914 OXIDISED POLYETHYLENE WAX:
Chemical Name: Oxidised Polyethylene Wax
E Number: E914
CAS Number: 68441-17-8
EC Number: 614-498-8
Chemical Formula: Variable polymeric structure (no fixed molecular formula)
General Formula: Oxidized polyethylene polymer
Molecular Weight: Variable depending on polymer chain length and oxidation degree
Chemical Family: Oxidized polyolefin waxes
Appearance: White to off-white flakes, powder, pellets, or granules
Chemical Name: Oxidised Polyethylene Wax
E Number: E914
CAS Number: 68441-17-8
EC Number: 614-498-8
Appearance: White to off-white powder, flakes, pellets, or granules
Physical State: Solid wax
Odor: Mild or nearly odorless
Chemical Nature: Oxidized polyethylene polymer
Density: Approximately 0.92 – 1.05 g/cm³
Drop Point: Typically above 95°C
Melting Range: Approximately 80°C – 120°C
Water Solubility: Insoluble in water
Solubility in Organic Solvents: Soluble in hot aromatic and hydrocarbon solvents
Thermal Stability: Good thermal resistance
Oxidation Stability: Good oxidative resistance
Chemical Stability: Stable under normal storage conditions
Surface Activity: Improved polarity compared with non-oxidized polyethylene wax
Acid Value: Typically below 70
Oxygen Content: Usually below 9.5%
Viscosity: Low to moderate depending on molecular weight
Film Forming Ability: Excellent
Gloss Enhancement: High
Moisture Barrier Properties: Good
Lubricating Properties: Excellent
Slip Properties: Good
Abrasion Resistance: Good
Non-volatile Content: High
Reactivity: Low chemical reactivity under standard conditions
Compatibility: Compatible with many waxes, polymers, and coatings
Emulsifiability: Improved due to oxidation
Shelf Stability: Long shelf life under dry storage conditions
Flammability: Combustible at elevated temperatures
Biodegradability: Limited biodegradability
Electrical Properties: Good anti-blocking and anti-static behavior in some formulations
Softening point (°C): 90-110
Density (g/cm3): 0.94-0.96
Acid index (mg KOH/g): 12-15
Acid value: 10 - 13 KOH mg/g 13 - 16 KOH mg/g 4 - 10 KOH mg/g
Softening Point℃: 100-105
ViscosityCPS@140℃: 200-300
Acid Value Mg KOH/g: 15-20
Appearance: White bead
Appearance: white powder with light yellow
Molecular weight: 3,000-4,000
FIRST AID MEASURES of E914 OXIDISED POLYETHYLENE 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 E914 OXIDISED POLYETHYLENE 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 E914 OXIDISED POLYETHYLENE 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 E914 OXIDISED POLYETHYLENE 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 E914 OXIDISED POLYETHYLENE WAX:
-Conditions for safe storage, including any incompatibilities:
*Storage conditions:
Tightly closed.
Dry.
STABILITY and REACTIVITY of E914 OXIDISED POLYETHYLENE WAX:
-Chemical stability:
The product is chemically stable under standard ambient conditions (room temperature).
-Possibility of hazardous reactions:
No data available
