Polyethylene Wax
What is Polyethylene Wax ?
Polyethylene wax is a synthetic wax made from the polymerization of ethylene. It is a type of polymer wax that is widely used in various industries for its excellent properties such as low viscosity, low melting point, high softening point, high hardness, good thermal stability, good dispersibility, and excellent electrical properties.
Polyethylene wax is used in various applications such as in the production of plastic films, coatings, inks, adhesives, and lubricants. It is also used as a processing aid in the production of PVC products to improve the processing characteristics of the polymer.
Polyethylene wax is available in various forms such as powder, granules, flakes, and emulsions. The choice of form depends on the application and the ease of handling required. Overall, polyethylene wax is a versatile and useful material with a wide range of applications in different industries.
Quality of Polyethylene Wax
The quality of polyethylene wax can be determined by several factors, including:
Molecular weight: The molecular weight of polyethylene wax affects its properties, such as its melting point, hardness, and viscosity. Higher molecular weight polyethylene wax tends to have a higher melting point and hardness, while lower molecular weight polyethylene wax has a lower melting point and viscosity.
Purity: The purity of polyethylene wax is important for its performance in different applications. Impurities in the wax can affect its properties, such as its color, odor, and stability.
Density: The density of polyethylene wax is an important factor in determining its physical properties, such as its hardness, toughness, and flexibility.
Melting point: The melting point of polyethylene wax affects its processing and performance in various applications. Higher melting point wax is useful for applications requiring high temperature resistance, while lower melting point wax is suitable for applications that require low-temperature processing.
Particle size: The particle size of polyethylene wax affects its dispersibility and processing properties. Smaller particle size wax has better dispersibility, while larger particle size wax has better processability.
History of Polyethylene Wax
Polyethylene wax has a relatively short history, as it was first developed and commercialized in the 1940s by the petrochemical industry. The development of polyethylene wax was a natural progression from the discovery of polyethylene, which was first synthesized by German chemist Hans von Pechmann in 1898.
The commercial production of polyethylene wax began in the 1940s, with the development of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) by the British company ICI (Imperial Chemical Industries) and the American company DuPont. LDPE was initially used as a coating for paper and textiles, but its excellent properties, such as low viscosity, low melting point, and high softening point, made it suitable for various other applications.
In the 1960s, high-density polyethylene (HDPE) was developed, which had a higher melting point and was more suitable for applications requiring high-temperature resistance. The development of HDPE led to the production of high-molecular-weight polyethylene wax, which had better mechanical and thermal properties than low-molecular-weight wax.
Since its commercialization, polyethylene wax has been widely used in various industries, including plastics, coatings, printing inks, adhesives, and lubricants. With continued research and development, new grades of polyethylene wax have been developed with improved properties, such as improved thermal stability, dispersibility, and compatibility with other materials.
Overall, the history of polyethylene wax is closely tied to the development of polyethylene and the petrochemical industry, and it has become an important and versatile material in various industries.
Usages of Polyethylene Wax
Polyethylene wax has a wide range of applications in various industries due to its excellent properties such as low viscosity, low melting point, high softening point, high hardness, good thermal stability, good dispersibility, and excellent electrical properties. Here are some of the common usages of polyethylene wax:
Plastic Industry: Polyethylene wax is widely used as a lubricant and processing aid in the production of PVC products, such as pipes, cables, and flooring, to improve the processing characteristics of the polymer.
Coatings Industry: Polyethylene wax is used as a dispersing agent, matting agent, and anti-blocking agent in the production of coatings, such as paints, varnishes, and inks. It can also enhance the scratch resistance and slip properties of coatings.
Adhesives Industry: Polyethylene wax is used as a tackifier and rheology modifier in the production of hot melt adhesives, pressure-sensitive adhesives, and other types of adhesives.
Rubber Industry: Polyethylene wax is used as a processing aid and lubricant in the production of rubber products, such as tires, hoses, and seals, to improve their processing characteristics and performance.
Textile Industry: Polyethylene wax is used as a lubricant and softening agent in the production of textile fibers, such as nylon and polyester, to improve their processability and properties.
Candles Industry: Polyethylene wax is used as a primary component in the production of candles, providing hardness, gloss, and low melting point.
Overall, polyethylene wax is a versatile and useful material with a wide range of applications in different industries, and its usage continues to expand with advancements in technology and innovation.
Packing of Polyethylene Wax
Polyethylene wax is typically packed in airtight bags, containers, or drums to protect it from moisture, dirt, and other contaminants that could affect its quality and performance. The packaging used for polyethylene wax depends on the form of wax and the quantity required.
Here are some common packaging options for polyethylene wax:
Bags: Small quantities of polyethylene wax are often packed in plastic bags that are airtight and sealed to prevent any moisture or contamination. The bags may be packed in cardboard boxes for easy handling and transport.
Containers: Polyethylene wax is also packed in containers such as plastic bottles, jars, or pails. These containers are airtight and provide an additional layer of protection against moisture and contamination. They are suitable for medium quantities of wax.
Drums: For larger quantities of polyethylene wax, it is often packed in metal drums. The drums are airtight and have a capacity of up to several hundred kilograms of wax. They are also ideal for long-term storage and transport.
In addition to the packaging, it is important to label the polyethylene wax with the necessary information such as product name, grade, quantity, batch number, date of manufacture, and safety instructions. Proper labeling helps to ensure that the wax is used correctly and safely.
Prices of Polyethylene Wax
The price of polyethylene wax varies depending on several factors such as the grade, quality, quantity, supplier, and market conditions. Here are some factors that can influence the price of polyethylene wax:
Grade: Polyethylene wax comes in different grades, and each grade has its unique properties and applications. Higher grades of polyethylene wax, such as high-molecular-weight wax, are generally more expensive than lower grades.
Quality: The quality of polyethylene wax can also affect its price. High-quality wax that meets industry standards and has consistent properties is usually more expensive than lower quality wax.
Quantity: The price of polyethylene wax may also vary based on the quantity purchased. Bulk purchases usually come with discounts, while smaller quantities may be sold at a higher price per unit.
Supplier: The supplier of polyethylene wax can also affect its price. Different suppliers may have different pricing structures based on their cost of production, distribution, and profit margins.
Market conditions: The supply and demand for polyethylene wax can also influence its price. Factors such as changes in raw material prices, market competition, and global economic conditions can impact the market price of polyethylene wax.
As of March 2023, the price of polyethylene wax ranges from around $1.50 to $3.50 USD per kilogram, depending on the grade and supplier. However, it is important to note that prices can fluctuate and may vary based on the factors mentioned above.
Delivery time and Readiness of Polyethylene Wax
The delivery time and readiness of polyethylene wax depend on several factors such as the quantity ordered, the grade and quality of the wax, and the supplier's production capacity and stock availability. Here are some factors that can affect the delivery time and readiness of polyethylene wax:
Quantity: The amount of polyethylene wax ordered can affect the delivery time. Larger orders may take longer to process and ship compared to smaller orders.
Grade and Quality: Some grades of polyethylene wax may be in higher demand than others, which can affect their availability and delivery time. Additionally, high-quality wax that meets industry standards may be more difficult to produce and may take longer to manufacture and deliver.
Supplier: The supplier's production capacity and stock availability can also affect the delivery time of polyethylene wax. If the supplier has a limited production capacity or low stock levels, it may take longer to fulfill orders.
Shipping distance: The shipping distance can also impact the delivery time of polyethylene wax. Orders that require longer shipping distances may take longer to arrive.
In general, the delivery time for polyethylene wax can range from a few days to several weeks, depending on the factors mentioned above. It is advisable to check with the supplier on the estimated delivery time and ensure that the order is placed well in advance to avoid any delays.
Analysis Table of Polyethylene Wax
| Test Method | Property | Specification | Typical Value |
| ASTM D-87 | Melting Point (°C) | 105-112 | 108 |
| ASTM D-1321 | Needle Penetration (dmm) | 1-5 | 2 |
| ASTM D-445 | Kinematic Viscosity at 140°C (cSt) | 8-15 | 10 |
| ASTM D-2501 | Drop Melting Point (°C) | 102-109 | 105 |
| ASTM D-1500 | Color (Saybolt) | +28 | +30 |
| ASTM D-92 | Flash Point (°C) | >177 | >180 |