Summary: Oxidized polyethylene wax is a specialized chemical with a long list of precision applications. Also known as oxidized wax, it is utilized throughout manufacturing and industrial processes. It is also a product we make here at Trecora.
Few additives are as versatile as oxidized polyethylene wax. Likewise, few are as misunderstood. Whether it is referred to as oxidized synthetic wax or, more simply, just oxidized wax, the material is the veritable ‘secret sauce’ behind durable PVC, high-end inks, and so much more.
A PhD in polymer chemistry isn’t necessary to understand the benefits of oxidized polyethylene wax in manufacturing and industry. Just knowing how it can enhance an organization’s processes is enough to get decision-makers to start thinking about it. To that end, we have put together this complete guide aimed at company owners and managers.
An Introduction to Oxidized Polyethylene Wax
At its core, an oxidized synthetic wax is a modified form of polyethylene. Traditional polyethylene wax doesn’t interact well with water or polar resins because it is non-polar by nature. This means that it does not have distinct positive or negative poles. The property is easily observed when submerging a nonpolar substance in water. Because water is a polar solvent, the nonpolar material will not dissolve in it.
Fortunately, standard polyethylene can be transformed into a polar substance by subjecting it to a controlled process that introduces oxygen-containing groups to the polymer chain. Oxidation transforms the wax from a simple lubricant into an additive with multiple functions.
The newly transformed wax can bond with a wider variety of materials. In has the ability to emulsify in water and stick to polar surfaces. At the same time, it is still slick enough to be used as a lubricant.
Why the Oxidation Process Matters
While transforming standard polyethylene wax into an oxidized wax is fairly straightforward, not all finished products are the same. The quality and properties of a finished synthetic wax depend heavily on the oxidation process that made it. It boils down to the precision of the application of heat and oxygen that opens the wax’s molecular structure.
Here at Trecora, our process is designed around some key metrics:
- Acid Value – We monitor acid value because we consider it the most critical specification. Acid value measures the degree of oxidation. The higher the value, the better the finished wax’s emulsification properties.
- Hardness – Hardness is a measurement of how well a finished wax will stand up to physical punishment. It is measured by needle penetration.
- Drop Point – Drop point is a measurement of the temperature at which a wax begins to flow. It is like the melting point of plastic polymers.
By measuring key metrics during the oxidation process, we can influence the final properties of an oxidized synthetic wax. This is critical simply because different applications require different properties. One application might need superior lubrication while another relies more heavily on effective bonding.
Critical Applications for Oxidized Waxes
Oxidized waxes are used throughout manufacturing and industry. From food processing to creating high-quality inks and dyes, these synthetic waxes are making an enormous difference in the products consumers purchase every day. Here are some of the more critical applications:
1. PVC Performance
PVC is a material most of us are familiar with. We find it in everything from plumbing components to plastic bottles. From the manufacturer’s standpoint, PVC processing is made easier when an oxidized synthetic wax is deployed as a high-efficiency lubricant.
Standard paraffin used to be the lubricant of choice. But oxidized synthetic wax has taken its place thanks to its excellent metal release properties. Plastic does not stick to hot metal surfaces like it tends to with paraffin. Practically speaking, this translates to:
- Higher production speeds.
- Reduced residue buildup on machinery.
- Smoother surface finishes.
Lubricant quality directly affects finished PVC products. The better the lubricant, the higher the finished product’s quality. That makes synthetic oxidized wax the obvious choice for external lubrication.
2. Emulsions and Coatings
As previously stated, oxidized wax is a polar substance. A resulting benefit is the fact that it can be transformed into a stable liquid emulsion. Moreover, the emulsions can be applied in a variety of ways, including:
- Improving fabric sewability and feel.
- Developing slip- and scuff-resistant floor finishes.
- Providing a protective yet breathable barrier for keeping fruit fresh.
Emulsions are difficult to work with by their nature. This is because the components of an emulsion don’t naturally disperse when mixed. They require an emulsifier to stabilize them. One of the advantages of oxidized wax is that it makes emulsions more stable.
3. Hot Melt Adhesives
In addition to producing oxidized waxes for our customers, we use them ourselves in the manufacture of hot-melt adhesives. Adding an oxidized wax during the manufacturing process helps us better control an adhesive’s set time and viscosity. The wax also ensures that the adhesive flows more easily during application without compromising bonding ability.
Reasons for Choosing Oxidized Synthetic Wax
Manufacturers and industrial concerns do not have to use oxidized synthetic wax as-is. They are free to use natural alternatives or non-oxidized waxes. But oxidized synthetic waxes offer advantages that just cannot be beaten under certain circumstances:
- Thermal Stability – Oxidized wax offers high thermal stability. It does not degrade or yellow even under high temperatures.
- Consistency – Because it is synthetic, oxidized wax does not have the impurities that tend to lead to product inconsistency. Synthetic waxes are more consistent by nature.
- Emulsifiability – Oxidized waxes can be deployed in water-based systems, thereby reducing VOC emissions.
- Versatility – Oxidized waxes are deployable across a wide range of pH levels and chemical environments, making them among the most versatile lubricants and bonding agents.
Selecting the correct grade is about understanding your goal. Oxidized waxes are chosen based on viscosity requirements, compatibility, and color sensitivity. Here at Trecora, our team is more than capable of helping you determine which oxidized waxes are optimal for your processes.
Our oxidized wax products are manufactured according to rigorous standards. The waxes you procure through us will perform exactly as intended because we focus on narrowing the specification window for the most precise applications.
FAQs
What is the difference between traditional polyethylene wax and its oxidized counterpart?
The biggest difference is polarity. Standard polyethylene is non-polar, making it a good basic lubricant. Oxidized wax is polar, making it available for applications well beyond lubrication.
Is oxidized wax the best external lubricant for PVC processing?
Oxidized wax is a superior external lubricant for PVC processing because it also acts as a metal release agent.
Is oxidized wax suitable for water-based systems?
Absolutely. Oxidized wax can be transformed into an aqueous emulsion, which is one of its most desirable properties.
How does oxidized synthetic wax improve floor polishes?
Oxidized wax emulsions offer a good balance of hardness and slip resistance. In floor polishes, it creates a film that resists scuffs but still maintains enough grip to offer serious slip resistance.
How does the oxidation process impact a wax’s melting point?
Oxidation lowers the melting point (or drop point) and hardness. But this must be tightly controlled to ensure that the finished product does not degrade or yellow under high heat.
