Title: Paraffin
Additional Names: Paraffin wax; hard paraffin
Literature References: A mixture of solid hydrocarbons having the general formula CnH2n+2, obtained from petroleum.
Properties: Colorless or white, somewhat translucent, odorless mass; greasy feel; burns with a luminous flame. d about 0.90. mp 50-57°; also available with higher and lower melting ranges. Insol in water or alcohol. Sol in benzene, chloroform, ether, carbon disulfide, oils; miscible when melted with wax, spermaceti, fats.
Melting point: mp 50-57°
Density: d about 0.90
CAUTION: Potential symptoms of overexposure to fumes are irritation of eyes, skin, respiratory system; discomfort and nausea. See NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards (DHHS/NIOSH 97-140, 1997) p 240.
Use: For raising mp of ointments. Manuf paraffin paper and candles (so-called wax paper or candles); for fixing drawings, etc., on muslin; water-proofing wood, cork, paper, leather; manuf varnishes; to render wooden vessels impermeable to water or alcohol; in lubricants; to cover food products; in floor polishes, cosmetics, electrical insulators; for extracting perfumes from flowers. Pharmaceutic aid (stiffening agent). |