PE Wax for Candles and Paraffin
PE wax for candles is the additive that adjusts hardness, drop point and shrinkage in paraffin formulations. In molded candles it prevents cracking and improves surface gloss.
In candle making, polyethylene wax is the classic additive for going beyond the limits of pure paraffin. Paraffin on its own is soft, has a low melting point and shrinks noticeably as it cools; PE wax solves all three problems at once.
What changes
- Hardness and penetration: Adding PE wax hardens the candle, giving a surface that does not take fingerprints and stands up to handling.
- Drop point: The melting range of the formulation rises, producing candles that do not deform in hot climates.
- Shrinkage control: Sinkholes and cracks that form in molded candles during cooling are reduced.
- Surface gloss: The surface coming out of the mold is smoother and glossier.
- Oil retention: Reduces sweating in formulations that carry fragrance oil.
Choosing the type
Hard waxes with a high drop point are preferred for hardness and heat resistance; low-viscosity types for easy mold filling and a homogeneous blend. The typical dosage is 1–5% and is adjusted to the target hardness.
Coloring
Carbon black can be used as a pigment in black and dark decorative candles; however, it must be used at a low level and well dispersed so that it does not build up around the wick.
What to Watch For in This Industry
Too much wax can make demolding harder
Reducing shrinkage helps, but eliminating it completely makes the candle stick in the mold. The optimum level is found by trials.
Blending temperature determines homogeneity
PE wax must dissolve completely in the paraffin; blend above the drop point and for long enough.
Recommended Products for This Industry
1-pallet trial offer
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Industry-Specific Questions
How much PE wax should I use in a candle formulation?
The typical dosage is 1–5%. It is raised to increase hardness and heat resistance, and kept low if transparency and softness are to be preserved.
A sinkhole forms in the middle of our candles after cooling.
This is the classic shrinkage problem. Adding PE wax markedly reduces shrinkage; lowering the pouring temperature and doing a second pour also help.
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