Microcrystalline Wax, commonly referred to as Micro Wax, is a highly refined petroleum-derived wax obtained during the de-oiling and dewaxing stages of lubricating oil refining.
Unlike paraffin wax, microcrystalline wax consists mainly of branched and cyclic hydrocarbons, resulting in a fine crystalline structure with high plasticity, flexibility, adhesion, and oil-holding capacity. These properties make it indispensable across cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, food processing, rubber, adhesives, coatings, and specialty industrial applications.
Chemical Composition & Structure
Predominantly iso-paraffins and naphthenic hydrocarbons
Carbon chain length typically C30–C60
Very fine micro-sized crystals
Higher molecular weight than paraffin wax
Low volatility and high chemical stability
Key Characteristics
Fine Microcrystalline Structure: Non-brittle, flexible texture with excellent elasticity and cohesion.
High Melting Point: Typically 60°C–90°C, suitable for high-temperature processing.
Excellent Adhesion & Binding: Strong affinity to metals, rubber, paper, and polymers.
Superior Moisture Barrier: Highly hydrophobic, prevents water ingress and oxidation.
High Oil-Holding Capacity: Retains oils without bleeding, enhancing formulation stability.
Odorless & Non-Toxic (Refined Grades): Suitable for cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and food-grade use.
Chemical Inertness: Non-reactive with acids, alkalis, and salts.
Typical Physical & Mechanical Properties
| Property | Typical Range | Functional Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Melting Point | 60°C – 90°C | Heat resistance & firmness |
| Needle Penetration @ 25°C | 10 – 100 dmm | Softness / hardness control |
| Oil Content | 0.5% – 8% | Flexibility & plasticity |
| Viscosity @ 100°C | 10 – 30 cSt | Flow behavior in melts |
| Density @ 25°C | 0.92 – 0.94 g/cm³ | Coating thickness & weight |
| Color | White to light yellow | Refining quality indicator |
| Crystal Structure | Very fine | Adhesion & elasticity |
Refining & Manufacturing Process
Vacuum distillation of wax-rich fractions
Solvent dewaxing to extract wax components
De-oiling to control hardness and plasticity
Hydrotreating or clay treatment for purity and color
Filtration and solidification into finished forms
Grades of Microcrystalline Wax
Soft Grade: High oil content, very flexible and tacky – used in cosmetics and chewing gum.
Medium Grade: Balanced hardness and adhesion – used in adhesives, rubber, and coatings.
Hard Grade: Low oil content, high melting point – used in packaging and corrosion protection.
Available Forms & Packaging
Forms: Slabs, blocks, pellets, pastilles, granules, molten supply
Packaging: Cartons, HDPE bags, drums, bulk supply, export packing available
Applications
Cosmetics: Lipsticks, balms, creams, makeup bases
Pharmaceuticals: Ointments, medicinal creams, protective coatings
Food & Confectionery: Chewing gum base, food coatings, fruit preservation
Rubber & Tires: Anti-cracking waxes, ozone protection
Adhesives & Sealants: Hot-melt and pressure-sensitive adhesives
Packaging & Coatings: Moisture barriers, corrosion protection
Specialty Uses: Candles, sculpting wax, decorative products
Advantages & Limitations
Advantages:
More flexible than paraffin wax
Higher melting point
Strong adhesive properties
Excellent moisture barrier
Long shelf life
Wide formulation compatibility
Limitations:
Higher cost than paraffin wax
Petroleum-based (non-biodegradable)
Requires controlled processing temperature
Microcrystalline Wax vs Paraffin Wax
| Property | Microcrystalline Wax | Paraffin Wax |
|---|---|---|
| Crystal Size | Very fine | Large |
| Flexibility | High | Low |
| Adhesion | Excellent | Poor |
| Melting Point | Higher | Lower |
| Moisture Resistance | Superior | Good |
| Cost | Higher | Lower |
Microcrystalline Wax is a high-performance specialty petroleum wax offering unmatched flexibility, adhesion, and moisture resistance. It is a critical material wherever standard paraffin wax cannot deliver required durability, stability, or performance.