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Microcrystalline Wax

Microcrystalline Wax

Microcrystalline wax has long been used to create products across many industries due to its wide range of benefits. This petroleum-derived wax is known for its fine crystal structure and high melting point range and viscosity, which set it apart from similar solutions like paraffin wax. If you’re looking to use this type of wax in your industrial applications, it’s essential to choose a microcrystalline wax supplier you can rely on.

Blended Waxes has the comprehensive knowledge, experience and technologies needed to produce top-quality microcrystalline waxes ideal for your unique requirements. We’ve spent over 45 years creating custom wax blends that serve our customers’ budget, time and application needs.

Microcrystalline wax is commonly used in beauty products and candles, but it can also be used as a blending ingredient to increase flexibility, viscosity and hardness in other products. It can vary in color from white to amber and ranges in texture from soft and tacky to hard and brittle, depending on the grade of microcrystalline.


Product Description
BW-408 Microcrystalline Wax This white microcrystalline wax is soft and tacky with a 145°F melt point.
BW-429 Microcrystalline Wax This yellow microcrystalline wax is soft, flexible, and has a 165°F melt point.
BW-430 Microcrystalline Wax This white microcrystalline wax is soft, flexible, and has a 160°F melt point.
BW-431 Microcrystalline Wax This white microcrystalline wax is hard, brittle, and has a 180°F melt point.
BW-405 Microcrystalline Wax This white microcrystalline wax is hard, brittle, and has a 195°F melt point.
FDA Status: All products are in compliance with Federal Regulations 21 CFR-178.3710 and 172.886
MICROCRYSTALLINE WAX PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
  BW-408 BW-429 BW-430 BW-431 BW-405
Congealing Point

(D-938)

140°F-150°F 155°F-165°F 155°F-163°F 164°F-172°F 190°F-204°F
Drop Melt Point

(D-127)

155°F-165°F 165°F-175°F 170°F-180°F 175°F-185°F 190°F-204°F
Color (Visual) White to Off White Light Yellow to Amber White to Off White White to Off White White to Off White
Oil Content (D-721) 1.5% Max 1.5% Max 1.5% Max 1.0% Max 2.0% Max
Needle Penetration
(D-1321)
           0.1 mm @ 77°F0.1 mm @ 100°F
 

80 – 130

200 – 250

 

22 – 30

80 – 112

 

20 – 30

85 – 110

 

6 – 12

18 – 44

 

5 – 10

 

Applications of Microcrystalline Wax

Applications of Microcrystalline Wax

Microcrystalline wax is a type of petroleum wax produced by refining and de-oiling crude oil. Its properties make it ideal for various industries. Manufacturers use this wax to produce cosmetics and candles, but it is also a blending ingredient in laminations, adhesives, lubricants, coatings and novelty blends. 

The Benefits of Microcrystalline Wax

Microcrystalline wax has unique properties that separate it from other petroleum products and by-products. One of these properties is that it is denser and more elastic than paraffin wax because it has finer crystals. Because of its characteristics, using microcrystalline wax has these benefits: 

  • Consistency: It can improve the consistency of the products you blend it with, making them either harder or easier to spread, depending on the specific application. 
  • Flexibility: Due to its flexible molecular structure, microcrystalline wax can make products more elastic, as well as less brittle and prone to breakage. 
  • Heat resistance: It is ideal for products that require heat resistance since it has a high melting point of 145 to 195 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Moisture resistance: Microcrystalline wax is naturally resistant to moisture and humidity — a property that makes it good for coating products where you want to prevent moisture loss and for coating products so they do not corrode.
  • Sheen: Applying microcrystalline wax to some products helps give the items more sheen. An example of this is car polish, which may contain microcrystalline wax. 
  • Versatility: Microcrystalline wax is considered safe to use for certain cosmetics, food applications and pharmaceuticals. It can also be scented and used for candles, among its many other applications. 

Microcrystalline Wax in the Manufacturing Industry and Commercial Products 

Microcrystalline waxes are more common than one may realize. You can find these waxes in an assortment of industrial and commercial products, from insulation for electrical components like wires to personal care products and products we often use around the house or garden. The range of items you can manufacture using microcrystalline wax in blends is incredibly diverse. 

Microcrystalline Wax in the Manufacturing Industry and Commercial Products

The Role of Wax in Adhesives and Sealants

Since microcrystalline wax can provide flexibility, stability and strength to materials, manufacturers use it as a blending ingredient for adhesive applications, including making adhesives for cartons and cardboard. 

The wax’s properties allow you to modify the viscosity, tack and plasticity of adhesives. Because of this, microcrystalline wax is typically used in sealants, pressure-sensitive adhesives (like safety labels and foil tape) and hot melt adhesives, or hot glue, for bonding paper, plastic, cardboard and other packaging materials

Wax in Coatings and Polishes 

You can also use microcrystalline waxes to create protective coatings and polishes for various industrial and commercial products:

  • Sports: In sports like snowboarding and ice hockey, microcrystalline wax can help reduce friction on the equipment. You can apply the wax to the hockey stick’s friction tape to protect the glue from moisture. It also stops ice and snow buildup on the blade. Thanks to the adhesive properties of the microcrystalline wax, it can even make it easier to control the puck. In snowboarding, you can apply the wax to the underside of the board to improve control and agility. 
  • Furniture and valuables: Another common use for microcrystalline wax is in polishes. Depending on the blend, you can create polishes that restore and protect furniture, other wooden fixtures and even leather. Additionally, the wax is suitable for caring for specific collectibles, as the coating helps protect valuables from dust, moisture and other contaminants. 
  • Vehicles: Microcrystalline wax is also a key ingredient in some car polishes. The wax is excellent for cleaning and protecting a car’s exterior, as it adds a high-gloss finish and can help prevent corrosion thanks to its water-repellent properties. 
  • Pharmaceuticals: Manufacturers sometimes use microcrystalline waxes to coat tablets and may also use the wax to produce salves and ointments that create a protective barrier for the skin. 

Wax in Personal Care Products

Microcrystalline wax is commonly found in personal care products and beauty items. Its characteristics make it a good ingredient for producing makeup and lotions:

  • Lipsticks and balms: The wax’s flexibility helps keep lipsticks and balms pliable. The wax also retains the lipstick’s oils and pigments. 
  • Creams and lotions: Microcrystalline wax is a key thickening agent in creams, giving the product its desired consistency. The wax is also excellent for producing creams and salves that protect the skin’s natural barrier. 
  • Hair products: Wax is a great addition to styling products like pomades and waxes. By adding microcrystalline wax, the products are better able to hold texture, add shine and stop moisture loss. 

Wax in Food Applications

Food-grade microcrystalline wax is highly versatile — you can use it for everything from preserving foods and as an ingredient to food and beverage packaging:

  • Cheese wax: If FDA-compliant, you can use microcrystalline waxes to seal foods. These seals act as barriers against moisture and odors and help keep food products fresh and preserved. A good example of this is the wax used for cheese wheels. Cheese wax is breathable, hardens quickly and helps keep the cheese’s shape. 
  • Wine: You can use bottle sealing wax to seal your wine, beer and spirit bottles. Because the wax is pliable, you can even create an exclusive emblem on the seal, making this sealing method even more versatile. 
  • Coating fruit: Microcrystalline wax has been used to coat fruit to give it a glossy appearance and extend shelf life by preventing moisture loss. The wax can even protect apples from thermal shocks from temperature changes. Studies have shown the effectiveness of the insulating properties of microcrystalline wax for this purpose.
  • Gum base: Food-grade microcrystalline wax is important for formulating chewing gum bases. The wax gives the gum an added plasticity and helps soften the gum base, and is important for getting the right chewiness and texture. 

Wax in Rubber and Lubricants 

Microcrystalline waxes can enhance the flexibility and durability of rubber products like tires and hoses. It is also ideal for producing lubricants, as its properties naturally reduce friction and wear.

Get Microcrystalline Wax from Blended Waxes

Microcrystalline wax and its applications are vital across industries. Whether you want to enhance your product’s adhesive properties, flexibility, strength and texture or seal or protect it, a microcrystalline wax blend could be the solution you have been looking for!

At Blended Waxes, our experts help you find the right wax solutions for your business, no matter your industry and product application requirements. We take the time to understand your product and requirements before creating a unique custom wax blend that fits your application and industry

We have waxes for building materials, cosmetics, candles, food coatings, medical applications, packaging, sealing and adhesives. Explore our range of quality custom wax solutions, or contact us today to discuss the right wax blends for your unique projects. 

Get Microcrystalline Wax from Blended Waxes

What Is Microcrystalline Wax?

Microcrystalline wax is made from petroleum. It is most similar to paraffin — another petroleum-based wax — but due to differences in the way they’re processed, they both have unique purposes in cosmetic use, manufacturing and more. While it can be used on its own, microcrystalline wax can also be an additive to other waxes, as it can create better hardness, flexibility and opacity.

Identifying microcrystalline wax can be challenging for the average person because it varies greatly in color and texture. Based on the refining process, the wax can be shades of brown, yellow and white, and may be soft, hard, tacky or dry. 

These differences mean it has extensive use cases. You may find it listed as an ingredient for:

  • Cosmetics
  • Candle making
  • Food coating
  • Lamination
  • Adhesives
  • Sculpting

Is Microcrystalline a Natural Wax?

No, microcrystalline wax is not considered natural. In wax making and blending, “natural” refers to any wax derived from a plant or animal. So, even though this wax comes from petroleum, it is not considered natural in the way lanolin or soy wax is.

Is Microcrystalline Wax Safe?

Though microcrystalline wax is not natural, it is safe! Because it is used in cosmetic and food-adjacent products, the FDA has strict rules about using this wax in certain situations. However, if you are still concerned about having a reaction, keep these tips in mind:

  • Do a patch test: When using cosmetic products with microcrystalline wax, do a patch test before using it more widely. Keep the product on the test space for as long as you would normally wear it, and if no reaction occurs, you are safe to continue using it. This is common practice for all skincare and makeup products. You can also talk to your dermatologist or doctor if you have sensitive skin.
  • Wear protective gear when handling: When handling liquid microcrystalline wax, wear protective gloves and eyewear, and keep any skin covered that may come into contact with the wax. Because liquid wax is at its melting point, it can burn the skin and leave behind product residue. You may also want to cover or protect the area you’re working in to prevent stains or damage.

What Are the Benefits of Microcrystalline Wax?

The density and elasticity of microcrystalline wax are often what sets it apart from other waxes. These qualities make it a highly versatile wax that can enhance a product’s:

  • Flexibility: When combined with brittle materials, microcrystalline wax can prevent breakage and add flexibility.
  • Resistance: With a high melting point and solidity when cool, this wax can protect products from heat, moisture and corrosion.
  • Appearance: When applied to a product’s exterior, microcrystalline wax adds a nice shine that enhances appearance while contributing to protection.

What Makes Microcrystalline Different From Paraffin Wax?

Just like paraffin wax, microcrystalline is derived from crude oil (petroleum). However, what makes it unique is that it is de-oiled during the refining process, meaning the oil is removed and only the wax is left behind. Because of this, the crystal structure of microcrystalline wax is much finer than paraffin’s, making it a thicker, more flexible wax with a variety of applications. It also has a higher melting point.

Since they are both derived from the same sources, microcrystalline and paraffin waxes are often blended and used together, enhancing the material’s tackiness and flexibility.

What Is the Melting Point for Microcrystalline Wax?

Microcrystalline wax’s melting point is typically higher than its paraffin wax counterpart, ranging from 140 to 200 degrees Fahrenheit, or 60 to 93 degrees Celsius. This melting point varies depending on the wax’s grade. For example, laminating-grade microcrystalline waxes have a melting point between 140 and 175 degrees Fahrenheit (60 to 80 degrees Celsius), while hardening grades range from 175 to 200 degrees Fahrenheit (80 to 93 degrees Celsius). 

Microcrystalline wax has a low viscosity as a liquid immediately above its melting point. This allows it to be applied in liquid form, and as it cools, it hardens into place. This is especially useful in adhesive applications like bookbinding. In bookbinding, manufacturers can apply a thin layer of wax onto the book’s exposed spine and immediately attach the cover to the pages. As the wax hardens, it cements the cover and pages together, creating a hard, yet flexible connection that’s perfect for flipping pages and bending spines.

What is Microcrystalline Wax Used For?

Microcrystalline wax has its uses in nearly every industry — you probably interact with it every day without even noticing. These are some of the areas where this wax is most common.

1. Cosmetics

Microcrystalline wax is added to a variety of cosmetics, including creams and lotions, waterproof mascara, pressed powder, lipstick and eyeliner. In creams and lotions, the wax is used as a viscosity builder. Adding microcrystalline wax to mascara gives it water-repelling properties. In pressed powder, microcrystalline wax acts as a binder and adds softness to the product. The hardness of microcrystalline wax gives eyeliner pencils and lipsticks structure to prevent them from crumbling with use.

2. Sports

Microcrystalline wax is essential for ice hockey players and snowboarders. This wax is applied to the friction tape used on ice hockey sticks to prevent the tape from disintegrating when it gets wet. The tackiness of microcrystalline wax also helps increase puck control.

Snowboarders use microcrystalline wax on the underside of their snowboards to reduce friction and increase the gliding ability of the board. The wax makes it easier to control the board, too.

3. Adhesives

The tacky qualities of microcrystalline wax make for a great adhesive! Microcrystalline wax is used in bookbinding, carton and case sealing, carpet binders and backings, and container labeling. It is also commonly used in hot melt adhesives, like hot glue sticks.

Invest in High-Quality Wax From Blended Waxes

If you’re looking to purchase microcrystalline wax from a trusted supplier, Blended Waxes is your go-to solution. We’ve spent over four decades dedicating ourselves to developing consistent, high-quality processes to produce the best possible wax blends for customers across all industries.

Contact us to learn more about our custom wax blending services today!

Overview
MICROCRYSTALLINE WAX PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
  BW-408 BW-429 BW-430 BW-431 BW-405
Congealing Point

(D-938)

140°F-150°F 155°F-165°F 155°F-163°F 164°F-172°F 190°F-204°F
Drop Melt Point

(D-127)

155°F-165°F 165°F-175°F 170°F-180°F 175°F-185°F 190°F-204°F
Color (Visual) White to Off White Light Yellow to Amber White to Off White White to Off White White to Off White
Oil Content (D-721) 1.5% Max 1.5% Max 1.5% Max 1.0% Max 2.0% Max
Needle Penetration
(D-1321)
           0.1 mm @ 77°F0.1 mm @ 100°F
 

80 – 130

200 – 250

 

22 – 30

80 – 112

 

20 – 30

85 – 110

 

6 – 12

18 – 44

 

5 – 10

 

Applications of Microcrystalline Wax

Applications of Microcrystalline Wax

Microcrystalline wax is a type of petroleum wax produced by refining and de-oiling crude oil. Its properties make it ideal for various industries. Manufacturers use this wax to produce cosmetics and candles, but it is also a blending ingredient in laminations, adhesives, lubricants, coatings and novelty blends. 

The Benefits of Microcrystalline Wax

Microcrystalline wax has unique properties that separate it from other petroleum products and by-products. One of these properties is that it is denser and more elastic than paraffin wax because it has finer crystals. Because of its characteristics, using microcrystalline wax has these benefits: 

  • Consistency: It can improve the consistency of the products you blend it with, making them either harder or easier to spread, depending on the specific application. 
  • Flexibility: Due to its flexible molecular structure, microcrystalline wax can make products more elastic, as well as less brittle and prone to breakage. 
  • Heat resistance: It is ideal for products that require heat resistance since it has a high melting point of 145 to 195 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Moisture resistance: Microcrystalline wax is naturally resistant to moisture and humidity — a property that makes it good for coating products where you want to prevent moisture loss and for coating products so they do not corrode.
  • Sheen: Applying microcrystalline wax to some products helps give the items more sheen. An example of this is car polish, which may contain microcrystalline wax. 
  • Versatility: Microcrystalline wax is considered safe to use for certain cosmetics, food applications and pharmaceuticals. It can also be scented and used for candles, among its many other applications. 

Microcrystalline Wax in the Manufacturing Industry and Commercial Products 

Microcrystalline waxes are more common than one may realize. You can find these waxes in an assortment of industrial and commercial products, from insulation for electrical components like wires to personal care products and products we often use around the house or garden. The range of items you can manufacture using microcrystalline wax in blends is incredibly diverse. 

Microcrystalline Wax in the Manufacturing Industry and Commercial Products

The Role of Wax in Adhesives and Sealants

Since microcrystalline wax can provide flexibility, stability and strength to materials, manufacturers use it as a blending ingredient for adhesive applications, including making adhesives for cartons and cardboard. 

The wax’s properties allow you to modify the viscosity, tack and plasticity of adhesives. Because of this, microcrystalline wax is typically used in sealants, pressure-sensitive adhesives (like safety labels and foil tape) and hot melt adhesives, or hot glue, for bonding paper, plastic, cardboard and other packaging materials

Wax in Coatings and Polishes 

You can also use microcrystalline waxes to create protective coatings and polishes for various industrial and commercial products:

  • Sports: In sports like snowboarding and ice hockey, microcrystalline wax can help reduce friction on the equipment. You can apply the wax to the hockey stick’s friction tape to protect the glue from moisture. It also stops ice and snow buildup on the blade. Thanks to the adhesive properties of the microcrystalline wax, it can even make it easier to control the puck. In snowboarding, you can apply the wax to the underside of the board to improve control and agility. 
  • Furniture and valuables: Another common use for microcrystalline wax is in polishes. Depending on the blend, you can create polishes that restore and protect furniture, other wooden fixtures and even leather. Additionally, the wax is suitable for caring for specific collectibles, as the coating helps protect valuables from dust, moisture and other contaminants. 
  • Vehicles: Microcrystalline wax is also a key ingredient in some car polishes. The wax is excellent for cleaning and protecting a car’s exterior, as it adds a high-gloss finish and can help prevent corrosion thanks to its water-repellent properties. 
  • Pharmaceuticals: Manufacturers sometimes use microcrystalline waxes to coat tablets and may also use the wax to produce salves and ointments that create a protective barrier for the skin. 

Wax in Personal Care Products

Microcrystalline wax is commonly found in personal care products and beauty items. Its characteristics make it a good ingredient for producing makeup and lotions:

  • Lipsticks and balms: The wax’s flexibility helps keep lipsticks and balms pliable. The wax also retains the lipstick’s oils and pigments. 
  • Creams and lotions: Microcrystalline wax is a key thickening agent in creams, giving the product its desired consistency. The wax is also excellent for producing creams and salves that protect the skin’s natural barrier. 
  • Hair products: Wax is a great addition to styling products like pomades and waxes. By adding microcrystalline wax, the products are better able to hold texture, add shine and stop moisture loss. 

Wax in Food Applications

Food-grade microcrystalline wax is highly versatile — you can use it for everything from preserving foods and as an ingredient to food and beverage packaging:

  • Cheese wax: If FDA-compliant, you can use microcrystalline waxes to seal foods. These seals act as barriers against moisture and odors and help keep food products fresh and preserved. A good example of this is the wax used for cheese wheels. Cheese wax is breathable, hardens quickly and helps keep the cheese’s shape. 
  • Wine: You can use bottle sealing wax to seal your wine, beer and spirit bottles. Because the wax is pliable, you can even create an exclusive emblem on the seal, making this sealing method even more versatile. 
  • Coating fruit: Microcrystalline wax has been used to coat fruit to give it a glossy appearance and extend shelf life by preventing moisture loss. The wax can even protect apples from thermal shocks from temperature changes. Studies have shown the effectiveness of the insulating properties of microcrystalline wax for this purpose.
  • Gum base: Food-grade microcrystalline wax is important for formulating chewing gum bases. The wax gives the gum an added plasticity and helps soften the gum base, and is important for getting the right chewiness and texture. 

Wax in Rubber and Lubricants 

Microcrystalline waxes can enhance the flexibility and durability of rubber products like tires and hoses. It is also ideal for producing lubricants, as its properties naturally reduce friction and wear.

Get Microcrystalline Wax from Blended Waxes

Microcrystalline wax and its applications are vital across industries. Whether you want to enhance your product’s adhesive properties, flexibility, strength and texture or seal or protect it, a microcrystalline wax blend could be the solution you have been looking for!

At Blended Waxes, our experts help you find the right wax solutions for your business, no matter your industry and product application requirements. We take the time to understand your product and requirements before creating a unique custom wax blend that fits your application and industry

We have waxes for building materials, cosmetics, candles, food coatings, medical applications, packaging, sealing and adhesives. Explore our range of quality custom wax solutions, or contact us today to discuss the right wax blends for your unique projects. 

Get Microcrystalline Wax from Blended Waxes

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