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Microcrystalline waxes are elastic and often "sticky" or "tacky". This is because of the high proportion of multi-branched hydrocarbon chains (iso-paraffins) as opposed to straight-branched chains (normals). While normal paraffins form large crystals, iso-normal paraffins form micro-crystals. These small crystals give an amorphous structure to the product making our Indramic products very flexible in contrast to the brittle nature of normal paraffins.

Chemical Family: Waxes

End Uses: Hot Melt Adhesive

Labeling Claims: Odor-free

Features: Corrosion Resistance, Excellent Adhesion

Safety Data Sheet

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Identification & Functionality

Chemical Family
CASE Ingredients Functions
Technologies

Features & Benefits

Labeling Claims
Product Highlights

When testing to determine whether a wax is a "micro" or not, the crucual parameters are

  1. Molecular weight and
  2. The iso-paraffin/normal paraffin ratio. Molecular weights of Indramic products range from approximately 580 to 700; this implies an average carbon number of 41 to 50.


IRM microcrystalline waxes are moisture free and range in color from a white to a brown, depending on the degree of refinement. Microcrystalline waxes dissolve similar to paraffin waxes: in chloroform, ether, benzene, carbon disulfide, volatile oils and other fixed oils. Micros do not dissolve in water/alcohol mixtures and dissolve only slightly in absolute alcohol. Indramic products are ductile and flexible, even at relatively low temperatures; they possess high tensile strength.
Micros are highly cohesive; this gives them adhesive properties and makes them resist both water vapor and liquid water.

Benefits
  • Chemically Inert (odorless, tasteless)
  • High Melting Point (relative to paraffin)
  • High Viscosity
  • High Cohesion and Adhesion

Applications & Uses

Compatible Substrates & Surfaces
Adhesive & Sealant Type
Uses for Microcrystalline Wax
  • Base for chewing gum, lipstick, cold creams, and ointments (where they harden, lubricate, carry additives, and protect against moisture)
  • Food packaging, moisture proffing, film, foil, and corrugated board
  • Increasing the fluidity and the flexible bonding of hot-melt adhesives
  • Crayons, candles and caulk to sealants and fine polishes
  • Host for compounds that prevent rust
  • Insulating materials
  • Candle Additives (where they "bind" excessive oil or fragrances)

Properties

Physical Form
Typical Properties
ValueUnitsTest Method / Conditions
Congealing Point70 - 75 (158-167)°C (°F)ASTM D-938
Drop Point73 - 78 (163.4-172.4)°C (°F)ASTM D-127
Viscositymax. 14cStASTM D-445
Penetration12 - 21dmmASTM D-1321
Colormax. 1.5ASTM D-1500