Production Method and Key Points of Emulsified Wax

 

Basic Production Method

1. Preparation of Raw Materials:

   • Wax: Options include petroleum waxes (such as paraffin wax, microcrystalline wax, etc.), modified petroleum waxes (e.g., oxidized wax), and synthetic waxes (like Fischer-Tropsch synthetic wax). The melting point of the raw wax should be moderate to facilitate smooth melting during the emulsification process.
   • Emulsifier: The choice of emulsifier is crucial for the stability of emulsified wax. Commonly used emulsifiers include the Span series, Tween series, monoglycerides, etc. The type and amount of emulsifier should be determined based on the properties of the raw wax and the desired emulsification effect.
   • Solvent: Water is typically used as the solvent, but other solvents can be selected as needed.
   • Stabilizer: Used to enhance the stability of emulsified wax, preventing it from separating or deteriorating. Cellulose ethers are commonly used stabilizers.

2. Heating and Melting:

   • Heat the wax and solvent (water) to a molten state, ensuring thorough mixing. The heating temperature should be above the melting point of the wax but not too high to avoid decomposition or scorching.

3. Addition of Emulsifier:

   • Add the emulsifier to the mixture of wax and solvent, stirring thoroughly to form an emulsion. The addition sequence and method of the emulsifier can also affect the stability of the emulsified wax. For example, methods such as the water-in-oil phase method, oil-in-water phase method, and spontaneous emulsification dispersion method can be employed.

4. Emulsification:

   • Control the temperature and stirring speed to enhance the emulsification effect. The emulsification temperature is typically controlled between 80_{90°C, but the specific temperature depends on the properties of the raw wax and the choice of emulsifier. The emulsification time is generally 20}30 minutes, but it may vary depending on the specific situation.

5. Cooling and Solidification:

• Cool the emulsified wax to solidify it into a solid object. The cooling rate should be moderate to avoid internal stresses or cracks in the emulsified wax.

Key Points Explanation

1. Hydrophilic-Lipophilic Balance (HLB) Value:

   • The HLB value is an indicator that measures the hydrophilic and lipophilic properties of an emulsifier. For emulsified wax, selecting an emulsifier with an appropriate HLB value is key to obtaining a stable emulsion. Generally, an HLB value between 9~12 is suitable.

2. Emulsification Equipment:

   • The choice of emulsification equipment also has a significant impact on the quality of emulsified wax. Commonly used emulsification equipment includes stirrers, emulsifiers, colloidal mills, etc. The appropriate emulsification equipment should be selected based on production scale, raw material properties, and emulsification requirements.

3. Emulsified Water and Bubbles:

   • During emulsification, the amount of emulsified water and bubble generation should be controlled. Excessive emulsified water can lead to dilution and separation of the emulsified wax, while bubbles can affect its uniformity and stability.

4. Stirring Speed:

   • The stirring speed also significantly affects the emulsification effect. Excessively fast stirring can cause shear damage to the emulsified wax, while excessively slow stirring may fail to form a stable emulsion. Therefore, the appropriate stirring speed should be selected based on specific circumstances.

Applications and Precautions

1. Applications:

   • Emulsified wax is widely used in lubricants, skincare products, coatings, papermaking, leather, wood, automotive protection, and other fields. In these fields, emulsified wax can improve product performance, stability, and service life.

2. Precautions:

   • During the preparation of emulsified wax, attention should be paid to the quality and ratio of raw materials, as well as the control of emulsification conditions. At the same time, safety and environmental protection issues during production should be considered to avoid harm to the environment and humans.

In summary, the production method of emulsified wax involves multiple steps and key points. By reasonably controlling the raw material ratio, emulsification conditions, and production process, emulsified wax products with good emulsification performance and usability can be prepared.