YELLOW BEESWAX

Yellow Beeswax is a natural wax secreted by honeybees (Apis mellifera) to build honeycombs. 
Yellow Beeswax is a solid, yellow-colored substance with a characteristic mild honey-like aroma. 
Beeswax is composed primarily of esters of fatty acids and various long-chain alcohols. 
Yellow Beeswax is widely used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, food coatings, and candle-making due to its emulsifying, thickening, and protective properties.
 
CAS Number: 8012-89-3
Synonyms:
Beeswax,Cera flava,Apis mellifera wax,Yellow Wax,Natural Beeswax
 
Definition and Overview
Yellow beeswax is a complex, naturally occurring substance produced by honeybees. 
It is primarily composed of long-chain esters, fatty acids, and alcohols that give it its unique properties. 
Bees use it to build the hexagonal honeycomb structure that serves as a storage space for honey and brood (eggs, larvae, and pupae). 
Unlike refined white beeswax, yellow beeswax retains its natural color, which is influenced by the amount of pollen and propolis (resinous substances collected by bees from plants) that is present. 
Yellow beeswax is a vital product of beekeeping, with its utility spanning a wide range of industries, including cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, food processing, and art.
 
Historical Use and Cultural Significance
The use of beeswax dates back to ancient civilizations. The Egyptians were among the first to harness the benefits of beeswax, utilizing it for mummification and embalming. 
It was also used to create cosmetics, ointments, and candles. 
The Greeks and Romans also valued beeswax, employing it in religious rituals and as an ingredient in perfumes and ointments. 
Medieval monks developed techniques for producing beeswax candles, and its historical importance extended into various cultures for similar uses.
 
Throughout history, beeswax has been a symbol of purity and light, particularly in the religious and ceremonial contexts. 
Its applications in art, medicine, and everyday life have helped shape its enduring value across cultures and eras.
 
Sources of Beeswax: Honeybees and Beekeeping
Beeswax is a byproduct of honey production. Worker bees, as part of their foraging activity, secrete wax from specialized glands located on the underside of their abdomen. 
This wax is initially clear and scale-like but is used to form hexagonal cells in the honeycomb structure. 
The beeswax used by humans is harvested after honey is extracted from the comb. 
Beekeepers carefully scrape off the wax and process it for further use.
 
The quality of beeswax depends on various factors, including the species of bee, the region where the hive is located, and the environmental conditions affecting the hive. 
Factors such as climate, flora, and the presence of contaminants (such as pesticides) can all influence the final characteristics of beeswax.
 
Chemical Composition and Molecular Structure
Detailed Chemical Analysis of Beeswax
Beeswax is primarily composed of long-chain hydrocarbons and esters, with the chemical composition being highly complex. The major components include:
 
Esters (70-80%): The esters found in beeswax are long-chain esters formed by the reaction of fatty acids with alcohols. 
These esters are largely responsible for the wax's hardness, brittleness, and overall stability. 
The two most abundant esters in beeswax are myricyl palmitate (C30H61COO-C15H31) and ceryl palmitate (C30H61COO-C16H33).
 
Fatty Acids (12-15%): The main fatty acids found in beeswax include palmitic acid (C16H32O2), oleic acid (C18H34O2), and myristic acid (C14H28O2). 
These contribute to the wax’s flexibility and malleability at warmer temperatures, making it useful in cosmetics and skin care formulations.
 
Alcohols (10-15%): The alcohols are long-chain molecules that include myricyl alcohol (C30H62O) and cerotic alcohol (C26H52O). 
These alcohols contribute to the wax’s firm texture and its ability to resist water penetration.
 
Hydrocarbons (5-6%): Beeswax contains long-chain alkanes, such as heptacosane (C27H56) and nonacosane (C29H60), which give the wax its hydrophobic properties and resistance to environmental elements.
 
Molecular Structure and Its Significance
The molecular structure of beeswax is highly ordered, with long hydrocarbon chains that create a solid, stable matrix at room temperature. 
These long chains of fatty acids and alcohols help the beeswax retain moisture and provide a barrier against environmental elements when used in various applications, including cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. 
This structure also contributes to beeswax's excellent emollient properties, making it a natural humectant that draws moisture from the environment and locks it into the skin.
 
Physical Properties of Yellow Beeswax
Color, Texture, and Appearance
Yellow beeswax is characterized by its golden to yellow-brown color. 
The exact shade can vary depending on the specific flora available to the bees, the type of hive, and the presence of other substances such as propolis or pollen. 
The wax is solid and has a smooth, slightly crumbly texture at room temperature. 
When heated, beeswax becomes pliable and can be molded into various shapes.
 
Melting Point, Hardness, and Other Key Physical Properties
Beeswax has a relatively high melting point, which makes it suitable for use in applications that require stability at moderate temperatures:
 
Melting Point: Beeswax has a melting point between 62°C and 65°C (144°F to 149°F). 
This is significantly higher than that of many plant-based waxes (such as soy or palm wax), which typically melt at lower temperatures.
 
Hardness: Beeswax is hard at room temperature but softens when heated, making it ideal for use in candles, coatings, and cosmetics. 
Its hardness is measured using the penetrometer test, which measures the wax’s resistance to indentation.
 
Solubility: Beeswax is insoluble in water but soluble in many organic solvents, including chloroform, ether, and toluene. 
This is important for applications where beeswax needs to be blended with other ingredients, such as in cosmetics and pharmaceutical formulations.
 
Comparison with Other Types of Wax
When compared to other natural waxes, beeswax is distinguished by its high melting point and natural, honey-like fragrance. 
It is often preferred over synthetic waxes due to its natural, non-toxic properties and its ability to form a smooth, durable finish. 
Carnauba wax, derived from the leaves of the Brazilian carnauba palm, is harder than beeswax and is often used for automotive waxes and shoe polishes, whereas beeswax is used in applications where a softer, more pliable wax is needed.
 
Beeswax Production Process
Steps Involved in Harvesting Beeswax
The harvesting of beeswax involves several steps to ensure the highest quality product:
 
Beeswax Harvesting: The first step in the process is harvesting the honeycomb. 
After honey extraction, the beeswax is carefully scraped from the hive. 
The wax may still contain traces of honey, propolis, and pollen at this stage.
 
Melting and Filtering: Once the beeswax is harvested, it is melted to remove impurities. 
The melted wax is filtered through fine mesh filters or strainers to remove any remaining honey or other debris.
 
Purification: Further purification may involve the use of activated charcoal or bleaching agents to remove any color or scent impurities, especially when the beeswax is intended for use in cosmetics or food applications.
 
Purification and Filtering Processes
In many cases, beeswax undergoes further treatment to ensure it meets specific quality standards. This may involve bleaching or deodorizing the wax. 
However, excessive treatment can strip the wax of some of its natural properties, so most premium beeswax products are minimally processed.
 
Quality Control and Factors Affecting the Final Product
Quality control in beeswax production involves checking for purity, consistency, and the absence of contaminants. 
Factors that can affect the final quality of beeswax include the type of beekeeping practices (e.g., organic or conventional), the environment in which the bees are kept, and the bee species. 
The wax should be free from harmful chemicals such as pesticides and herbicides, which can compromise both its effectiveness and safety for use in cosmetics, food, and medical applications.
 
Industrial and Commercial Uses of Yellow Beeswax
Cosmetic Industry
Beeswax is highly prized in the cosmetic industry for its ability to act as a natural emulsifier and moisturizer. 
It is commonly found in products such as lip balms, creams, lotions, and ointments. 
Beeswax’s ability to form a protective barrier on the skin makes it effective at locking in moisture, reducing water loss, and softening dry or chapped skin. 
Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties help soothe irritated skin, making it a common ingredient in products for sensitive skin.
 
Pharmaceutical Applications
Beeswax is used in a wide variety of pharmaceutical products, particularly ointments and balms. 
It is a key component in formulations that aim to soothe and protect the skin. 
Its use in wound care has been well documented, as it forms a semi-permeable barrier that protects the wound from contaminants while allowing the skin to heal. 
Beeswax is also a natural binder in tablets and lozenges.
 
Food Industry
In the food industry, beeswax is used as a food-grade coating for fruits, vegetables, and cheese, helping to prolong shelf life. 
Its natural, non-toxic properties make it a suitable alternative to synthetic coatings, which may contain harmful chemicals. 
Beeswax is also used in the production of natural, biodegradable food packaging, offering an eco-friendly alternative to petroleum-based plastics.
 
Polishes and Coatings
Beeswax is used in the manufacture of various polishes, including furniture polish, shoe polish, and car wax. 
It creates a smooth, durable finish while providing protection against moisture and environmental damage. 
Beeswax is also used in leather conditioning, as it helps to maintain flexibility and prevent cracking.
 
Beeswax in Art
Beeswax has a long-standing tradition in the arts, particularly in encaustic painting. 
This ancient art form involves mixing beeswax with pigment and applying it to surfaces like wood, canvas, or paper. 
The wax imparts a rich texture and glossy finish to the artwork, allowing it to stand the test of time. 
Artists have also used beeswax for its translucency, which enhances the depth and luminosity of colors.

SAFETY INFORMATION ABOUT YELLOW BEESWAX
 
 
 
 
First aid measures:
Description of first aid measures:
General advice:
Consult a physician. 
Show this safety data sheet to the doctor in attendance.
Move out of dangerous area:
 
If inhaled:
If breathed in, move person into fresh air. 
If not breathing, give artificial respiration.
Consult a physician.
In case of skin contact:
Take off contaminated clothing and shoes immediately. 
Wash off with soap and plenty of water.
Consult a physician.
 
In case of eye contact:
Rinse thoroughly with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes and consult a physician.
Continue rinsing eyes during transport to hospital.
 
If swallowed:
Do NOT induce vomiting. 
Never give anything by mouth to an unconscious person. 
Rinse mouth with water. 
Consult a physician.
 
Firefighting measures:
Extinguishing media:
Suitable extinguishing media:
Use water spray, alcohol-resistant foam, dry chemical or carbon dioxide.
Special hazards arising from the substance or mixture
Carbon oxides, Nitrogen oxides (NOx), Hydrogen chloride gas
 
Advice for firefighters:
Wear self-contained breathing apparatus for firefighting if necessary.
Accidental release measures:
Personal precautions, protective equipment and emergency procedures
Use personal protective equipment. 
 
Avoid breathing vapours, mist or gas. 
Evacuate personnel to safe areas.
 
Environmental precautions:
Prevent further leakage or spillage if safe to do so.
Do not let product enter drains.
Discharge into the environment must be avoided.
 
Methods and materials for containment and cleaning up:
Soak up with inert absorbent material and dispose of as hazardous waste. 
Keep in suitable, closed containers for disposal.
 
Handling and storage:
Precautions for safe handling:
Avoid inhalation of vapour or mist.
 
Conditions for safe storage, including any incompatibilities:
Keep container tightly closed in a dry and well-ventilated place. 
Containers which are opened must be carefully resealed and kept upright to prevent leakage.
Storage class (TRGS 510): 8A: Combustible, corrosive hazardous materials
 
Exposure controls/personal protection:
Control parameters:
Components with workplace control parameters
Contains no substances with occupational exposure limit values.
Exposure controls:
Appropriate engineering controls:
Handle in accordance with good industrial hygiene and safety practice.
Wash hands before breaks and at the end of workday.
 
Personal protective equipment:
Eye/face protection:
Tightly fitting safety goggles. 
Faceshield (8-inch minimum). 
Use equipment for eye protection tested and approved under appropriate government standards such as NIOSH (US) or EN 166(EU).
 
Skin protection:
Handle with gloves. 
Gloves must be inspected prior to use. 
Use proper glove
removal technique (without touching glove's outer surface) to avoid skin contact with this product. 
Dispose of contaminated gloves after use in accordance with applicable laws and good laboratory practices. 
Wash and dry hands.
 
Full contact:
Material: Nitrile rubber
Minimum layer thickness: 0.11 mm
Break through time: 480 min
Material tested:Dermatril (KCL 740 / Aldrich Z677272, Size M)
Splash contact
Material: Nitrile rubber
Minimum layer thickness: 0.11 mm
Break through time: 480 min
Material tested:Dermatril (KCL 740 / Aldrich Z677272, Size M)
It should not be construed as offering an approval for any specific use scenario.
 
Body Protection:
Complete suit protecting against chemicals, The type of protective equipment must be selected according to the concentration and amount of the dangerous substance at the specific workplace.
Respiratory protection:
Where risk assessment shows air-purifying respirators are appropriate use a fullface respirator with multi-purpose combination (US) or type ABEK (EN 14387) respirator cartridges as a backup to engineering controls. 
 
If the respirator is the sole means of protection, use a full-face supplied air respirator. 
Use respirators and components tested and approved under appropriate government standards such as NIOSH (US) or CEN (EU).
Control of environmental exposure
Prevent further leakage or spillage if safe to do so. 
Do not let product enter drains.
Discharge into the environment must be avoided.
 
Stability and reactivity:
Chemical stability:
Stable under recommended storage conditions.
Incompatible materials:
Strong oxidizing agents:
Hazardous decomposition products:
Hazardous decomposition products formed under fire conditions. 
Carbon oxides, Nitrogen oxides (NOx), Hydrogen chloride gas.
 
Disposal considerations:
Waste treatment methods:
Product:
Offer surplus and non-recyclable solutions to a licensed disposal company. 
Contact a licensed professional waste disposal service to dispose of this material.
Contaminated packaging:
Dispose of as unused product