1. Chemical composition of wax:

• Hydrocarbon:
  • Many types of wax contain hydrocarbons (chains of carbon atoms and hydrogen) and are a key component of wax composition. In paraffin wax for example, hydrocarbons are alkanes (saturated hydrocarbons) with long chains.

• Fatty acids and fatty alcohol:
  • Some types of wax, such as beeswax or carnauba wax, contain fatty acids such as palmtic acid or octadecanic acid. These acids bind to fatty alcohol (e.g. primary alcohol) to form compounds known as fatty esters that give wax its wax strength and steel.

• Fatty esters:
  • Esters are an essential chemical component of waxes, and are the result of the reaction of fatty acids to alcohol. These esters give waxes their unique properties such as solid textures, glitter, and waterproof.

2. Types of wax and their chemical composition:

a. ” Paraffin Wax :

• Paraffin wax is mainly composed of long-chain alkanes, which are saturated hydrocarbons containing 20-40 carbon atoms in the chain. The chemical composition of this wax enhances its properties as a solid wax material at room temperature, used in applications such as candle making and insulation.

b. Beeswax :

• Beeswax is a complex combination of fatty acids (such as palmtic acid and hydroxytrichenol acid), esters and hydrocarbons. Its formula contains varying proportions of fatty alcohol, such as secellular alcohol, which gives it good elasticity.

c. Carnauba Wax :

• Carnauba wax consists of fatty acid esters and fatty alcohol, as well as hydrocarbons. It is stronger and more rigid than many other wax types, making it suitable for applications that require high resistance such as car polishing and furniture.

d. Soy Wax :

• Soy wax is derived from vegetable oils, consisting of saturated fats and unsaturated fats, as well as fatty acids. This type of wax is more environmentally friendly than other species.

3. Chemical properties of wax:

• Melting point:
  • Wax generally has a low to medium melting point (ranging from 40 to 90 ° C depending on type) which makes it easily soluble at moderate temperatures.

• Insoluble in water:
  • Wax is generally insoluble in water but soluble in some organic solvents such as chloroform or ether. It is also considered waterproof, making it ideal for use in applications that require moisture resistance.

• القدرة على تكوين طبقات واقية:
  • Chemical wax properties provide the ability to form a thin and shiny layer when applied to surfaces, helping to protect them from external factors such as dirt and water.

• Strength of cohesion:
  • The wax has a strong molecular cohesion, making it capable of binding to surfaces easily and forming a level layer that helps insulate and protect surfaces.

4. Chemical Wax Uses:

• Candle Industry:
  • Since WAX is soluble and rigid at low temperatures, it is used to make candles in various forms.

• Cosmetic Industry:
  • Fatty acids and fatty alcohol are used in cosmetics to improve cosmetic properties such as moisturization and giving gloss to the skin.

• Polishing surfaces:
  • Wakes are used to make furniture and car polishing products, forming a protective layer that improves glitter and protects surfaces from scratches.

• Food Packaging:
  • Carnauba wax and soy wax are used in fruit and vegetable packaging to protect them from dehydration and damage, as well as improve their appearance.

Food Packaging:5. Defects and limitations:

• Temperature:
  • WAX can dissolve at elevated temperatures, which may limit its use in applications that are exposed to extreme heat.

• Accumulation:
  • Wakes may accumulate on surfaces over time and require regular cleaning or refurbishment.