Paraffins 

Paraffins are a mixture of alkanes, which are colorless, odorless, and soft solid substances derived from petroleum.

Some important characteristics of paraffins

  • They are saturated hydrocarbons, meaning they have no double bonds in their molecules.
  • They are insoluble in water but soluble in oils and organic solvents.
  • They are flammable.
  • They have a low melting point.
  • They are electrically insulating.

Uses of Paraffins

  • Candle Making: Paraffin wax is the most common type of candle.
  • Cosmetic Products: Paraffin is used in creams, lotions, lipsticks, and other cosmetic products.
  • Food Packaging: Paraffin is used to prevent foods from drying out and spoiling.
  • Textile Industry: Paraffin is used to soften fabrics and make them waterproof.
  • Medical Treatments: Paraffin is used to treat medical conditions like arthritis and muscle pain.

Chlorinated Paraffin

Chlorinated paraffin is a non-flammable chemical resulting from the reaction of chlorine gas with paraffin wax. Chlorinated paraffins can be classified based on the length of the chlorine chains, and commercial formulations may contain a mixture of compounds in this class.

Some important characteristics of chlorinated paraffin

  • It is a solid substance that is white or light brown in color.
  • It is non-flammable.
  • It is insoluble in water.
  • It is soluble in most organic solvents.
  • It is toxic.

Uses of Chlorinated Paraffin

  • Chlorinated paraffin is used to retard the burning of plastics.
  • Chlorinated paraffin is used to retard the burning of rubbers.
  • Chlorinated paraffin is used to retard the burning of textiles.
  • Chlorinated paraffin is used to insulate electrical cables.
  • Chlorinated paraffin is used to improve the performance of lubricants.

Solid Paraffin

Solid paraffin is a type of paraffin that is solid at room temperature. It is usually white or colorless and is used in candles, cosmetics, and food packaging.

Solid paraffin is a versatile material with many different properties. Some important characteristics are:

  • Low Melting Point: Solid paraffin has a melting point between 40°C and 60°C, making it ideal for use in candle making.
  • High Melting Point: Hard paraffin has a melting point between 70°C and 90°C, making it ideal for use in medical treatments.
  • Waterproof: Solid paraffin is waterproof, making it ideal for use in food packaging.
  • Non-toxic: Solid paraffin is non-toxic, making it ideal for use in cosmetic products.
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