Contrast and Compare Paraffin and Microcrystalline Wax.

Contrast and Compare Paraffin and Microcrystalline Wax.

The differences between paraffin and microcrystalline are summarized in the table below. The distinct properties make each product suitable for special applications.

Property Microcrystalline Waxes Paraffin Waxes
Odor Odorless Odorless
Color Light Brown, Yellow, White White
Texture or "Feel" Adhesive Slick and Glossy
Melting Point Higher Melting Point 54-95 C Lower Melting Point 48 to 70 C
Opacity Opaque Translucent
Tensile Strength Plastic and Malleable Brittle
Crystalline structure Monoclinic crystals Amorphous
Alkane CH4 structure Branched Straight Chain

 

Main IRM page for Microcrystalline Waxes