Kerosene
Kerosene is a collective term for a group of saturated hydrocarbons typically derived from petroleum, coal or oil shale. It is often used in solid or semi-solid forms and is known to most as the main component of many wax products. Kerosene consists of a mixture of saturated hydrocarbons, particularly alkanes, which can have between about 20 and 40 carbon atoms per molecule. These alkanes can have straight or branched chain structures. Kerosene is typically a by-product of petroleum refining, obtained by distillation and subsequent purification.
Water-repellent and easy to melt - properties of kerosene wax
Kerosene wax is known for its excellent chemical inertness, making it resistant to most acids, bases and oxidizing agents. It has a low reactivity and a high electrical insulating capacity. Kerosene is water-repellent and has a low density. In its solid state, it has a low melting point, typically between 47°C and 64°C, which makes it easy to melt. These properties make it ideal as a lubricant, coating material and in applications that require a water-repellent barrier. Kerosene wax is also non-toxic and is often used in products that come into direct contact with food.
Where and how is kerosene wax used in industry?
Kerosene wax is widely used in industry, mainly because of its diverse physical and chemical properties. It is used in the manufacture of candles, as a coating for cheese and other foods to extend shelf life and prevent dehydration. In the packaging industry, it is used as a coating agent for cardboard and paper to ensure water resistance. In technical applications, it is used as a lubricant, especially in applications that require a clean, acid-free composition. Kerosene wax is also often used in industry as a protective coating for metal parts to protect them from oxidation and rust. This makes it particularly valuable in the automotive and marine industries, where long-term preservation of metal components is essential.