IGI Microcrystalline Waxes
Definition of Microcrystalline Wax
Microcrystalline wax is a refined mixture of solid, saturated aliphatic hydrocarbons, and produced by de-oiling certain fractions from the petroleum refining process. Microcrystalline waxes differ from refined paraffin wax in that the molecular structure is more branched and the hydrocarbon chains are longer (higher molecular weight). As a result the crystal structure of microcrystalline wax is much finer than paraffin wax, and this directly impacts many of the physical properties. Microcrystalline waxes are tougher, more flexible and generally higher in melting point than paraffin wax. The fine crystal structure also enables microcrystalline wax to bind solvents or oil, and thus prevent the sweating-out of compositions.
Comparison of Microcrystalline and Paraffin Waxes
|
Paraffin Wax Mainly unbranched alkanes Crystalline Brittle Translucent Low melting (48 to 70șC) Glossy Hard White Odorless |
Microcrystalline Wax Mainly branched alkanes Amorphous Malleable Opaque Higher melting (54 to 95șC) Adhesive Soft White to Colored Odorless |
Microcrystalline waxes may broadly be divided into 3 categories:
| Grade | Melting Point | Hardness | Applications |
| Type 1 - Laminating | 54 to 76șC | 20 - 35 dmm | Packaging Adhesives Cosmetics Rubber Candles |
| Type 2 - Coating | 76 to 85șC | 14 - 25 dmm | Adhesives Packaging Chewing Gum Inks Plastics Rubber |
| Type 3 - Hardening | 85 to 95șC | 6 to 14 dmm | Adhesives Inks Chewing Gum Candles Specialty |
Production and Grades of Microcrystalline Waxes
Recent industry trends in the base lubricant market have reduced the total number of refineries producing purpose-made microcrystalline waxes. In North America, The International Group, Inc is one of the few remaining companies that have committed refining capacity to the long term supply of finished microcrystalline waxes. IGI refineries are based in Pennsylvania USA and Ontario Canada.
IGI Microsere brand waxes are synonymous with the high performance and consistency. Through custom and dedicated manufacturing capabilities, our goal is to help you achieve the quality, differentiated products required to meet your customer needs.
- Unrivalled range of melting point, hardness & color grades to meet specific end-product needs
- Conformance to FDA requirements as outlined in 21 CFR 172.886 & 178.3710
- For markets restricting use of BHT, most grades available without the addition of antioxidant
- Are supplied as granule, pellet, slabs or liquid bulk, all designed to fit your processing needs
Functions and Benefits of Microcrystalline Waxes for Given Applications
See: Target Market Segments for Microcrystalline Waxes
