Polyethylene Wax
WHAT IS POLYETHLENE WAX?
Polyethylene Wax is a type of polymer, or plastic, that is widely used in various applications. It is a synthetic material made from repeating units of the ethylene monomer. Polyethylene is known for its versatility, durability, and low cost. Polyethylene wax is obtained from ethylene through a process called polymerization. Manufacturers modify the polymerization process to obtain a product of the desired quality. Due to its highly crystalline nature, this material has unique properties such as hardness at high temperatures and low solubility in a wide range of solvents. In this article, with the help of the Oil & Gas Market Analysis Team, we will discuss the properties and characteristics of this polyethylene polymer. PE Wax is one of the most important wax compounds used as an additive in various industries. This chemical compound is produced from the polymer polyethylene and has special properties that have made it a very popular and practical material in the industry. Due to its special properties, PE is used in various industries such as the plastics industry, paints and varnishes, printing and packaging, car care and flooring industry, soap and hygiene products industry and candle making industry. This wax acts as a chemical agent resistant to heat, water, humidity and pressure and is typically used as an anti-adhesion, anti-scratch and surface properties improver.
THERE ARE DIFFERENT TYPES OF POLYETHYLENE, INCLUDING:
- Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE): LDPE is flexible, lightweight, and used for items like plastic bags, squeezable bottles, and some types of packaging.
- High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE): HDPE is more rigid and is used in products like milk jugs, detergent bottles, and pipes.
- Linear Low-Density Polyethylene (LLDPE): LLDPE is a flexible plastic used in products like plastic wraps and trash bags.
Polyethylene is used in a wide range of applications due to its excellent chemical resistance, low moisture absorption, and ease of processing. It’s one of the most commonly used plastics in the world Polyethylene wax is a synthetic wax that is derived from polyethylene, a common plastic material. Polyethylene wax, also known as PE wax, is typically low-density polyethylene (LDPE) or high-density polyethylene (HDPE). It’s used in various applications, including as a lubricant, a dispersing agent, and in the production of various products. PE Wax is made by polymerizing ethylene, the primary component of polyethylene. It is composed of long chains of ethylene monomers. It is typically a white, odorless, and waxy solid at room temperature. The physical properties of PE Wax, including its melting point and hardness, can vary depending on its molecular weight and production process.
BENEFITS & PROPERTIES OF POLYETHYLENE WAX
Polyethylene Wax has several properties and benefits that make it useful and applicable in various industries.
Below are some of these properties and benefits:
Anti-sticking: PE Wax is used as an anti-sticking agent. This property prevents different surfaces and materials from sticking to each other and can be easily separated.
Anti-scratch: This wax is used as an anti-scratch agent and can protect the surface of products against surface lines and scratches. This property makes plastic products, automotive industries and other industries that are exposed to scratches and abrasion more resistant.
Surface property improver: PE Wax can improve the surface properties of products and change them in a desirable direction. This wax can increase the gloss, smoothness and attractive appearance of products.
Heat and Water Stability: PE Wax has high heat and water stability. These properties allow products containing this wax to have good resistance and performance under different temperature and humidity conditions.
Chemical Stability: PE Wax has good resistance to various chemical agents such as oxidants, acids and bases. This property allows products containing PE Wax to be protected against chemical changes and remain stable.
Additive: PE Wax is used as an additive in industrial processes. This wax can improve the properties and characteristics of products and is used in the production, processing and recycling processes of various materials.
Use in the printing and dyeing industry: PE Wax is used as an additive in the printing and dyeing industry. It can be added to inks and paints to give these products properties such as smoother flow, better adhesion and greater gloss.
Use in the flooring industry: PE Wax is used as an anti-slip agent and surface improver in the flooring industry. This wax can improve the surface of the floor and reduce the risk of falls and slips.
Use in the soap and hygiene products industry: PE Wax is used as an additive in the soap and hygiene products industry. This wax can act as a dispersant, waterproof and surface improver in these products.
Overall, PE Wax is used as a multi-purpose agent in various industries with a combination of anti-adhesive, anti-scratch, surface improver and stability against various environmental conditions.
TYPES OF POLYETHYLENE WAX
LOW DENSITY POLYETHYLENE WAX
Low Density Polyethylene Wax is a type of polymer wax that has a lower density than other types of PE Wax. This property makes low density PE Wax used as an additive and auxiliary material in various industries.
BELOW ARE SOME OF THE APPLICATIONS OF LOW DENSITY POLYETHYLENE WAX:
Plastics Industries: Low Density PE Wax can be used as an auxiliary material in the production of plastic products. This wax can improve the surface properties of plastic products, such as increased gloss, smoothness, and better fiber drawing.
Printing Industries: Low Density PE Wax is used as an additive in the printing industry. This wax can add properties such as smoother ink flow, better fiber drawing, and improved lubrication to printed products.
Paint Industry: Low-density PE Wax can be used as an additive and colorant in the paint industry. This wax can add properties such as improved paint flow, better adhesion and increased gloss to paints and colorants.
Textile Industry: Low-density PE Wax can be used in the textile industry. This wax can improve the surface properties of fibers, such as reducing friction and improving fiber draw.
Wood and Furniture Industry: Low-density PE Wax can be used in the wood and furniture industry. This wax can be used as an auxiliary material in lubrication and improving the surface properties of wood products.
Food Industry: Low-density PE Wax can be used in some food industries as an auxiliary material. For example, it is used in food packaging, such as to seal the edges of bags or to improve the surface properties of food.
The use of low-density polyethylene wax in each specific industry is due to its specific properties and needs. In any case, before using any type of wax, it is best to consult with the product manufacturer or relevant experts to ensure that low-density polyethylene wax is suitable for your needs.
HIGH DENSITY POLYETHYLENE WAX
High Density Polyethylene Wax is a type of polymer wax that has a higher density than other types of PE Wax. This wax is used in various industries due to its special properties and characteristics.
Below are some of the applications of high density polyethylene wax:
Paper Industries: High Density PE Wax is used as an auxiliary material in the paper industry. This wax can improve the surface properties of paper and prevent moisture from penetrating into the paper.
Printing Industries: High Density PE Wax is used as an additive in the printing industry. This wax can improve the surface properties of printed products, such as preventing ink from being absorbed by the printed surface and increasing gloss.
Plastics Industries: High Density PE Wax can be used as an auxiliary material in the production of plastic products. This wax can improve the surface properties and mechanical strength of plastic products.
Textile industry: High-density PE Wax can be used in the textile industry. This wax can improve the surface properties of fibers, such as reducing friction and improving fiber drawability.
Food industry: High-density PE Wax can be used in some food industries. This wax can be used as an auxiliary material in food packaging, in order to maintain freshness and reduce the penetration of moisture and oxygen into the package contents.
OXIDIZED POLYETHYLENE WAX
Oxidized Polyethylene Wax is a type of wax that is produced from polyethylene as the main material and is formed in the process of oxidation of polyethylene. In this process, polyethylene reacts with oxygen and oxide functional groups are attached to the polymer chain.
Oxidized polyethylene wax has various properties and applications. For example:
Increase in surface properties: Oxidized polyethylene wax can improve the surface properties of various materials. This wax can act as an anti-scratch agent, reduce friction and reduce surface water absorption.
Use in the printing industry: Oxidized polyethylene wax is used as an additive in the printing industry. This wax can improve the surface properties of printed products, such as increasing gloss and preventing ink absorption by the printed surface.
Use in Plastics Industry: Oxidized polyethylene wax can be used in the production of plastic products. This wax can improve the surface properties and mechanical strength of plastic products and can also be used as an auxiliary material in injection, breakfast and extrusion processes.
Use in Paint and Resin Industries: Oxidized polyethylene wax can be used as an additive in the production of paints and resins. This wax can add anti-fouling, anti-scratch and surface property improving properties to the final products.
Use in Various Industries: Oxidized polyethylene wax may be used in various industries such as textile industries, leather industries, food industries and cosmetic industries as an auxiliary material.
The use of oxidized polyethylene wax varies depending on the specific needs of the industry and the type of product being produced. Before using this type of wax, it is best to consult with the product manufacturer or relevant experts to ensure that oxidized polyethylene wax is suitable for your needs.
ACID-MODIFIED POLYETHYLENE WAX
Acid-Modified Polyethylene Wax is a type of wax produced using a chemical modification process with acid. In this process, PE Wax undergoes chemical changes using acid, which leads to changes in its properties and characteristics.
Acid-modified polyethylene wax can have various properties and applications. For example:
Use in printing industries: This type of wax can be used as an additive in the printing industry. By adding acid-modified PE Wax to printing inks, it provides better surface properties and lubrication for printing.
Use in paint industries: Acid-modified PE Wax can be used as an additive in the production of paints and resins. This wax can improve the surface properties and mechanical strength of the final products.
Use in Plastics Industry: Acid-modified PE Wax may be used as an auxiliary material in the production of plastic products. This wax can improve the surface properties, abrasion resistance and prevent adhesion of plastic products.
Use in Leather Industry: Acid-modified polyethylene wax can be used in the production of leather products as a filling agent and a moisture and water protector. This wax can add waterproof, moisture-proof and wear-resistant properties to leather.
MICRONIZED POLYETHYLENE WAX
Micronized Polyethylene Wax is a type of wax that is produced from polyethylene as the main material and then micronized. In the micronization process, PE Wax is divided into very fine sizes, so that its particle size is about 1 to 10 microns.
Micronized Polyethylene Wax has various properties and applications. For example:
Use in Printing Industries: Micronized PE Wax can be used as an additive in the printing industry. By adding this wax to printing inks, it provides better surface properties for printing and can prevent the absorption of ink by the printed surface.
Use in Paint Industries: Micronized PE Wax can be used as an additive in the production of paints and resins. This wax can improve anti-fouling properties, increase gloss and improve surface properties of the final products.
Use in Plastics Industry: Micronized PE Wax can be used in the production of plastic products as an auxiliary material. This wax can improve the surface properties and mechanical strength of plastic products and also reduce friction in plastic processing processes.
Use in Leather Industry: Micronized PE Wax may be used in the production of leather products as a filler and protector against moisture and water. This wax can add waterproof and moisture-proof properties to leather and also help improve abrasion resistance.
POLYETHYLENE EMULSION WAX
Polyethylene emulsion wax is a type of wax that is produced as an emulsion in water. This type of wax consists of polyethylene particles that are mixed with water by emulsifying agents to create a stable emulsion.
Polyethylene emulsion wax has various properties and applications. For example:
Use in the paint industry: Polyethylene emulsion wax can be used as an additive in the production of paints and resins. This wax can improve the surface properties, mechanical strength and gloss of the final products.
Use in the printing industry: Polyethylene emulsion wax can be used as an additive in the printing industry. By adding this wax to printing inks, better surface properties are provided for printing and can prevent the absorption of ink by the printed surface.
Uses in Coatings: Polyethylene emulsion wax may be used in the production of protective and water- and moisture-resistant coatings. This wax can add water- and moisture-repellent properties to the surface of products and protect them from deterioration and damage caused by water and moisture.
Uses in Cosmetics: Polyethylene emulsion wax can be used in the production of cosmetic products such as moisturizers, lotions and skin creams. This wax can improve the emollient, protective and spreadability properties of the products.
MAIN USES OF POLYETHYLENE WAX
Polyethylene wax is an adhesive, waterproof, and friction-reducing agent used in various industries.
Some of the uses of polyethylene wax include:
Printing industries: PE Wax is used as an additive in printing inks. This wax can add better surface properties to printing and prevent ink from being absorbed by the printed surface.
Packaging industries: PE Wax is used in the production of packaging films and layers. This wax can improve waterproof properties, prevent air penetration, and maintain the freshness of products.
Plastics industries: PE Wax is used as an auxiliary material in the production of plastic products. This wax can improve surface properties, mechanical strength, and friction-reducing agents in plastic processing processes.
Paint and resin industries: PE Wax can be used as an additive in the production of paints and resins. This wax can improve the gloss, anti-fouling and surface properties of products.
Leather industry: PE Wax is used in the production of leather products such as shoes, bags and belts. This wax can improve the waterproof and moisture-proof properties of leather and protect it from abrasion and damage caused by moisture and water.
Cosmetics industry: Polyethylene wax can be used in the production of cosmetic products such as moisturizers, lotions and skin creams. This wax can improve the softening, protective and spreadability properties of products.
FACTORS FOR CHOOSING THE RIGHT POLYETHYLENE WAX
Choosing the right type of polyethylene wax depends on your specific needs and use. Below, I will mention some types of PE Wax and their applications:
Liquid polyethylene wax: This type of wax is used in the printing, packaging, and dyeing industries. If you need to make the surface of your product shiny and waterproof, this type of wax is suitable.
Polyethylene wax paste: This type of wax is used in the leather, shoe, and cosmetic industries. If you need to soften your product, add waterproof and moisture-proof properties to it, or add shine to the surface, this type of wax is suitable.
Powdered polyethylene wax: This type of wax is used in the plastic and resin industries. If you need to improve the anti-fouling properties and improve the surface properties of your plastic products, this type of wax is suitable.
POLYETHYLENE WAX PRODUCTION PROCESS
The polyethylene wax production process generally includes the following steps:
Polymerization: This step involves the production of polyethylene polymer. Polyethylene is a thermoplastic polymer produced from ethylene monomer. In this step, the ethylene monomer is subjected to reaction conditions to convert into long polymer chains.
Addition of antioxidant agents: To prevent oxidation and rusting of polyethylene during the production and storage process, antioxidant agents are added to the polymer. These agents prevent the polymer from being destroyed by oxygen in the air.
Addition of additives: In order to improve the properties of polyethylene, various additives are added to it. These materials can include colorants, sunscreens, heat and fire resistant materials, impact resistant materials, etc. Adding these materials to polyethylene can change its mechanical, waterproof, thermal and appearance properties.
Forming process: In this stage, polyethylene is shaped into the required shape. This process can include injection, pressing, blowing, casting or other processes, by which polyethylene is produced in the form of parts, sheets, pipes, films, etc.
Final processing: In this stage, polyethylene parts undergo final processes such as cutting, bending, welding and cleaning. The aim of this stage is to obtain a final product with the desired accuracy and quality.
Since polyethylene wax is used for different applications, its production process may vary based on the specific needs of each application and may have different additives and forming methods. In any case, the PE Wax production process begins with the production of polyethylene polymer from ethylene monomer and is completed by adding additives and shaping the final product.
QUALITY CONSIDERATIONS FOR POLYETHYLENE WAX
Polyethylene wax (PE wax) is a chemical with diverse properties and applications. Below, we review important quality considerations that should be considered when using polyethylene wax:
Melting Point: The melting point of the PE Wax should be suitable, so that at typical application temperatures, it melts easily and acts as a lubricant and protector on the intended surfaces.
Molecular Weight: The molecular weight of the PE Wax should be appropriate for the application requirements. Higher molecular weight may result in better mechanical properties and higher resistance to pressure, friction and abrasion.
Color and Appearance: Polyethylene wax is usually gray or white in color. The color and appearance of the PE Wax should be in accordance with the final product requirements and should also be resistant to light and heat.
Lubrication Properties: Polyethylene wax must have suitable lubricity properties in order to be used as a lubricant on surfaces. This property can be affected by various factors such as temperature and pressure.
Congealing Point: The freezing point of PE Wax is important because it indicates at what temperature the wax changes from a liquid to a solid state. This property can have a direct impact on the processing and use of polyethylene wax.
Thermal Stability: Polyethylene wax must have suitable thermal stability in order to be able to withstand high temperatures and thermal changes.
Pigment Acceptability: Polyethylene wax must have good pigment acceptance so that if coloring is required, the desired color is evenly distributed in the wax.
Compatibility with other materials: Polyethylene wax must have good compatibility with other materials and resins that are used in the production or use processes in order to bond well and provide the expected properties.
Cleanliness: Polyethylene wax must be completely clean and pure to avoid contamination and harmful particles. This is especially important when polyethylene wax is used in food and medical products.
Packaging: Polyethylene wax packaging should be done in a way that prevents contact with moisture, light, air and other contaminants. Whether the product is packaged properly and stored properly can have a great impact on the final quality of PE Wax.
The above are just some of the quality considerations for PE Wax. For optimal use of polyethylene wax in any particular industry and application, there may be other considerations and characteristics that need to be taken into account according to your needs and relevant standards.
COMPARISON OF POLYETHYLENE WAX WITH OTHER TYPES OF WAX
PE wax is one of the types of wax produced from polyethylene.
Below is a comparison of PE Wax with two other types of wax:
PARAFFIN WAX
Chemical composition: Paraffin wax is produced from petroleum-derived hydrocarbons.
Properties: Paraffin wax has waterproof, thermal insulation and mechanical strength properties. It will also increase the slipperiness and shine of the surface used.
Applications: Paraffin wax is used in various industries such as plastics, paper, food and shoemaking.
MICROCRYSTALLINE WAX
Chemical composition: Microcrystalline wax is produced from petroleum-derived hydrocarbons, but its crystal structure is smaller than paraffin wax.
Properties: Microcrystalline wax has similar properties to paraffin wax, but with a smaller crystal distribution and greater adhesion to the surface.
Applications: Microcrystalline wax is used in industries such as food, paper, health and cosmetic industries, paints and cleaning products.
COMPARISON OF POLYETHYLENE WAX WITH PARAFFIN AND MICROCRYSTALLINE WAX
Main material: Polyethylene wax is produced from polyethylene, while paraffin and microcrystalline wax are made from petroleum-derived hydrocarbons.
Crystalline structure: Polyethylene wax has a polymeric crystalline structure, while paraffin and microcrystalline waxes are formed as crystalline crystals and smaller crystals.
Mechanical strength: Polyethylene wax has higher mechanical strength than paraffin and microcrystalline waxes due to its polymeric structure.
Surface Properties: All three types of waxes have surface lubrication and shine properties, but due to their different crystal structures, they have slightly different properties.
Applications: Polyethylene wax is used as a lubricant and antifouling agent in various industries such as plastics, food, clothing and hygiene products. Paraffin and microcrystalline waxes are also used in the same industries as lubricants, antifouling agents and shiners, but due to their different crystal structures, they may have different applications in some cases.
In general, all three types of waxes have similar properties and applications, but due to the differences in crystal structure and how they are prepared, they may be preferred in some cases. Choosing the most suitable wax depends on your specific needs and applications.
CONCLUSION
Polyethylene wax is heat stable, low in solubility, chemically resistant, and tough. Combining these properties with its abrasion resistance and wide melting points makes it an undeniable choice for a wide range of industrial applications. Since this material can have a wide range of melting points, densities, and other properties, it is understandable why it is so widely used.
POLYETHYLENE WAX: HANDLING, SAFETY, AND STORAGE
HANDLING:
- Use in well-ventilated areas to avoid dust accumulation.
- Avoid inhaling dust or fumes generated by heating.
- Wear protective gear such as gloves, goggles, and dust masks when handling.
SAFETY:
- Non-toxic and generally safe, but inhalation of dust or fumes may cause irritation.
- Keep away from open flames or high heat to prevent decomposition or fire.
- Follow local regulations for disposal.
STORAGE:
- Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area, away from heat, ignition sources, and direct sunlight.
- Keep the material in tightly sealed, labeled containers to avoid contamination.
- Avoid stacking too high to prevent damage or collapse.
By following these guidelines, PE Wax can be handled and stored safely, maintaining its quality and minimizing risks.
POLYETHYLENE WAX: PACKING
Polyethylene wax
PE Wax is typically packaged to ensure ease of handling, transportation, and protection from contamination or moisture. Common packaging options include:
BAGS:
- 25 kg Bags: Often made of kraft paper or polyethylene-lined plastic to protect against moisture and environmental exposure.
- Suitable for smaller-scale industries and easier handling.
SUPER SACKS / JUMBO BAGS:
- 500 kg to 1000 kg: Ideal for bulk transportation and industrial use.
- Made from durable woven polypropylene for heavy loads.
DRUM:
- Steel or plastic drums are used for pastilles or liquid forms, typically with a 200-liter capacity.
- Provides excellent protection against environmental exposure.
BULK PACKAGING:
- For very large volumes, PE Wax is transported in bulk containers or tanker trucks for molten wax.
LABELING: All packaging is labeled with essential details like grade, weight, batch number, safety instructions, and manufacturer information. This ensures traceability and safe handling.
TECHNICAL DATA SHEET OF POLYETHYLENE WAX
Common Grades:
Grade Softening Point (°C) Penetration Index (D1321) Flash Point (°C) Viscosity @140°C (Cp) Appearance/Characteristics Application
PE WAX 1370 85-90 20-30 < 130 10-40 Snow white flakes, free of black spots PVC pipes & panel, filler masterbatch
PE Wax 1380 100-105 5-8 < 140 10-20 Dry and snow-white flakes, free of black spots PVC, high quality filler & color masterbatch
PE wax 1385 110-115 10-15 < 140 100-150 White flakes, free of black spots Filler masterbatch
PE WAX 1390 90-95 15-20 < 140 10-20 Snow white flakes, free of black spots PVC pipes and panel, filler masterbatch
HD WAX 1200F 105-110 3-4 > 180 20-40 Super dry snow white flakes, high softening point. Good hardness, non-toxic, good thermal stability, low volatility Hot melt adhesive, high quality PVC stabilizer, high quality filler & color masterbatch
HD WAX 1205 Bead 105-110 3-4 > 200 20-50 Super dry white beads, high softening point. Good hardness, non-toxic, good thermal stability, low volatility Hot melt, high quality PVC stabilizer, high quality filler & color masterbatch
HD WAX 1105F Flake 105-110 3-6 > 170 20-50 Super dry snow white, high softening point. Good hardness, non-toxic, good thermal stability, low volatility Hot melt, high quality PVC stabilizer, high quality filler & color masterbatch
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