Paraffin wax is a white or colorless soft solid derived from petroleum, coal, or shale oil. It consists primarily of saturated hydrocarbons (alkanes). It is odorless, tasteless, and insoluble in water, but soluble in ether, benzene, and certain esters.

It is widely used in candles, coatings for wax paper or fabric, polishes, cosmetics, electrical insulators, and food-grade applications.

Types of Paraffin Wax

Paraffin wax can be categorized based on:

1. Oil Content

The oil content determines the softness and application. It’s classified into:

• Fully Refined Paraffin Wax (FRPW):

  • Oil content: <0.5%

  • White, odorless, and highest purity

  • Used in cosmetics, food packaging, pharmaceuticals, and candles

• Semi Refined Paraffin Wax (SRPW):

  • Oil content: 0.5–1.5%

  • Slightly yellowish, less pure than FRPW

  • Common in match, rubber, and printing industries

• Crude or Scale Wax:

  • Oil content: >5%

  • Darker, greasy

  • Used in industrial applications like rust protection and waterproofing

2. Melting Point

Paraffin waxes are also classified by melting point range:

• Low Melting Point Wax (47–54°C):

  • Softer, more flexible

  • Used in creams, lotions, and candle blends

• Medium Melting Point Wax (54–60°C):

  • Common in standard candle production

• High Melting Point Wax (>60°C):

  • Harder and more brittle

  • Suitable for pillar candles, technical uses

3. Applications

Some specialized types based on use include:

• Food-grade Paraffin Wax:

  • Used to coat fruits, vegetables, candies, and cheese

  • Must comply with FDA or food safety standards

• Industrial Paraffin Wax:

  • Used in packaging, rubber, electrical insulation, and lubricants

• Cosmetic-grade Paraffin Wax:

  • Used in spas, skin softening treatments, and therapeutic wraps.