Microcrystalline waxes are a type of wax that we produce by de-oiling petrolatum, as part of the petroleum refining process. In contrast to the more familiar paraffin wax which contains mostly unbranched alkanes, micro crystalline wax contains a higher percentage of iso paraffinic (branched) hydrocarbons and naphthenic hydrocarbons. We characterize Micro crystalline by the fineness of its crystals in contrast to the larger crystal of paraffin wax. It consists of high molecular weight saturated aliphatic hydrocarbons. It is generally darker, more viscous, denser, tackier and more elastic than paraffin waxes, and has a higher molecular weight and melting point.

Description of Microcrystalline Wax

The elastic and adhesive characteristics of microcrystalline waxes are related to the non-straight chain components which they contain. Typical micro crystalline wax crystal structure is small and thin, making them more flexible than paraffin wax. We commonly use in cosmetic formulations. When we produce Micro-crystalline wax by wax refiners, typically produce them to meet a number of ASTM specifications. These include congeal point (ASTM D938), needle penetration (D1321), color (ASTM D6045), and viscosity (ASTM D445). Micro-crystalline waxes can generally be put into two categories: “laminating” grades and “hardening” grades. The laminating grades typically have a melt point of 140-175^oF (60 – 80^oC) and needle penetration of 25^oC or above.

The hardening grades will range from about 80 – 93^oC, and have a needle penetration of 25^oCor below. Color in both grades can range from brown to white. Depending on the degree of processing done at the refinery level. We drive Microcrystalline waxes from the refining of the heavy distillates from lubricant oil production. This by product then we de-oil that at a wax refinery. Depending on the end use and desired specification, the product then may have its odor removed and color removed(which typically starts as a brown or dark yellow). This is usually done by means of a filtration method or by hydro-treating the wax material.

Packing 

Most of all Microcrystalline waxes as 5 kg slabs which we pack in carton or gunny and there is the possibility of palatalizing too.