Wachsadditive

Wax properties

Waxes are hard, lipophilic components with a melting point above 40°C. When these substances melt they directly have a very low viscosity. Examples of products that have this property are certain paraffin fractions, microcrystalline waxes and beeswax.

In the case of surface modifiers PTFE is also mentioned as a wax. Technically PTFE is not a wax, because of the much higher melting point and the generic properties of the pure substance. But when micronized it behaves very similar to these other compounds.

Application

Because of the technical properties of these micronized components they have the most effect on surface properties of coatings and inks. The waxes are used as flow, slip and abrasion resistance additives. With their low surface tension and improved slip a smooth film is made which is more resistance to scratching and damaging than coatings without modifiers.

An example of a functional application is the improved release of food in coil-coatings. Especially for this application food-contact waxes are available.

Other surface effects are the matting with polypropylene waxes and texturizing with PTFE waxes. One of the options is improving product feel: a nice soft-touch for an elegant effect on your luxurious products. Or maybe you want extra grip for a better hold and an improved safety?

Powders, dispersions and emulsions

The different forms we deliver are powders, dispersions and emulsions. The powders are the pure micronized wax, which can be added in the grinding phase of a coating formulation. Using this form gives the most freedom on your formula, but also requires the most equipment and knowledge to get to a good end-result.

Dispersions are stabilized by Lubrizol, in either solvent or in water. This type can be added at any point in the production process and are most often found in the let-down phase of a recipe. It is very easy to work with and the dispersions can be used to fine-tune after initial QC measurements have been done.

The last type that is available is emulsions. Wax-emulsions are prepared under high pressure and temperatures exceeding 100°C. The liquid wax is emulsified at this temperature and subsequently stabilized, this creates very fine droplets which make it possible to apply waxes in extremely thin layer thicknesses. The influence on the gloss and other esthetic properties is also minimized by the small particle sizes.

Try it yourself?

Lanco waxes can be of added value in many different types of formulas. Do you have a specific demand on a surface that you are trying to reach? Do contact us! We will find an appropriate wax and can supply you with a sample so you can test it in your formula.