To explain the difference between solid and crystal paraffin, it can be said that there are two types of paraffin that have significant differences in properties and applications. Solid paraffin, with a higher fat percentage, melts at specific temperatures and is used as a raw material for candles.
In contrast, crystal paraffin has the lowest fat percentage and, with its high quality and unique transparency, is used in the manufacture of high-quality and pure candles.
These differences in fat content, melting point, and appearance characteristics of each of these two types of paraffin make them suitable choices for their specific purposes. Below, we will introduce the types of paraffin and examine the difference between solid and crystalline paraffin.
What is the difference between solid and crystal paraffin?
The main difference between solid paraffin and crystal paraffin is the percentage of fat and refining. Crystal paraffin has a lower percentage of fat, which results in greater strength, longer burning time, and better colorability. This type of paraffin is obtained from crude oil and is transparent and whiter in quality and appearance.
In other words, to express the difference between solid paraffin and crystal paraffin, crystal paraffin, with a lower fat percentage and higher refinement, is usually considered the best option for making quality candles. On the other hand, regular solid paraffin is often obtained from petroleum waste and has a higher fat percentage and is darker and duller in appearance.
Introduction to paraffin
Paraffin is an important industrial material that is obtained from petroleum. Simply put, paraffin can be described as a petroleum-based material that is found in liquid or solid form in the market. Its solid form is known as paraffin wax and in some cases it is also known as paraffin wax.
Liquid paraffin is divided into two types: heavy and light. Paraffin wax is mainly used in various industries as a lubricant, electrical insulator, and candle. This material stands out compared to other materials, except for some plastics, due to its insulating properties.
In scientific definition, paraffin is a simple hydrocarbon compound with all carbon atoms connected to each other by single bonds. These hydrocarbons are also known as alkanes or paraffins. In general, the simple bonds between carbon atoms in the paraffin molecule are one of their important characteristics.
Types of paraffin
Paraffin has long been used as the main ingredient in the production of various types of candles. This is its main use, but over time, other uses have been added to paraffin. For example, solid paraffin is well established in the candle-making industry, and in addition, liquid paraffin is also used in industrial matters, especially for special purposes.
This versatile compound, due to its suitable physical and chemical properties, falls into various categories such as candle making, fluid industry, metal protection, etc. Paraffin is also available in various forms such as solid paraffin, liquid paraffin, and other formats for different applications.
Types of solid paraffin based on consumption
- Edible solid paraffin
- Sanitary solid paraffin
- Industrial Paraffin wax
Introduction to solid paraffin in terms of fat content
- Solid paraffin with a fat content of 0.5 to 1%.
- Solid paraffin with a fat content of 1 to 3%.
- Solid paraffin with a fat content of 3 to 5%.
- Solid paraffin with a fat content of 5 to 7%.
Crystalline and microcrystalline solid paraffins
- Light paraffin (macrocrystalline): Crystalline paraffin or light paraffin, which is prepared by sweating and is less common due to its specific uses.
- Heavy paraffin (microcrystalline): This type of paraffin is more common and more than 90% of paraffins on the market are microcrystalline. The percentage of fat and oil can be changed.
Acidified solid paraffin
Paraffin wax Acidic, which contains about 3 to 5 percent oil, is milky white in color and often has a jelly-like characteristic. It melts at an average temperature of 58 to 60 degrees Celsius and freezes at 50 to 55 degrees Celsius, which makes it appear solid.
Using this type of paraffin in candle making may cause the candle to turn yellow over time. Acidic solid paraffin is commonly used in the candle making industry and due to its special properties, it boils at 175°C and evaporates at 265°C.
Crystalline solid paraffin
Crystalline paraffin wax is divided according to its specific properties in terms of fat percentage. If the paraffin wax has a low fat percentage, it is called crystalline paraffin wax.
This type of paraffin is known for its white and transparent color and is more expensive than acid paraffin with a lower fat content. Crystalline solid paraffin is recommended for making quality candles due to its transparency and white color.
Choosing the right type of paraffin
- The most important thing when buying paraffin is to consider its uses. The percentage of oil and fat varies based on the use.
- In candle paraffin, a lower oil percentage is chosen for higher quality. In the lubricant industry, the opposite is true.
- Whiter paraffin is of higher quality.
- To ensure the quality of paraffin, you can assess its quality by breaking it and observing the crystal grains.
Final words
In short, the difference between solid paraffin and crystal paraffin is in the amount of fat in each and their melting and freezing characteristics. Solid paraffin, with a higher amount of fat, is suitable for making candles and purposes that require melting at certain temperatures.
In contrast, crystal paraffin, with the lowest fat content, is used in the manufacture of clear, high-quality candles. Each of these types of paraffin, with its own characteristics, has a variety of applications in different industries, including the candlemaking industry, and the appropriate choice can be made in the best possible way depending on the desired needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Solid paraffin has a specific melting and freezing point due to its minimal oil content. This type of paraffin is usually found in the form of a jelly or wax with a milky white color. It is used in the manufacture of candles, electrical insulators, and other products.
Crystalline paraffin has a lower fat content, greater strength, longer burning time, and better colorability than regular paraffin. It is also made from crude oil and is further refined.
Paraffin wax is a clear jelly that has a longer burn time than solid paraffin. Sensitive to temperature, it melts with indirect heat (steam or a bain-marie). It is used to make jelly candles.
Liquid paraffin has a low concentration and is in the form of an oil. It is usually used to make liquid candles and is transparent and colorless. This type of paraffin boils at a temperature of 175 degrees Celsius and evaporates at a temperature of 265 degrees Celsius.
