Candle-Making - Shellac, Waxes, Natural Gums, Resins, Menthol Crystals & Zein

Source

Candles are manufactured using a wide variety of waxes, which are naturally produced by plants and animals or refined from mineral deposits and petroleum.

Natural Waxes

Product

From Plants

Candelilla wax (E902), from the Mexican shrubs Euphorbia cerifera and Euphorbia antisyphilitica.

Carnauba wax (E903), from the leaves of the Carnauba palm, Copernicia cerifera or the Brazilian palm, Copernicia prunifera.

From Animals

Beeswax, white and yellow (E901), produced by honey bees.

From Minerals

Ozokerite (Earth Wax), extracted from lignite beds and rock fractures.

From Petroleum

Microcrystalline wax, produced by de-oiling Petrolatum.

Paraffin wax, refined from slack wax by vacuum distillation.

Properties

Chandlers (candle-makers) traditionally used tallow (animal fat) or spermaceti (sperm whale oil) to manufacture candles as a cheaper alternative to Beeswax, although the former produced more smoke and an unpleasant odour. Modern candles are mainly manufactured using Paraffin wax or sometimes Microcrystalline wax, which are both produced through the petroleum refining process. However, Beeswax is still used today in the production of environmentally friendly candles and for ceremonial purposes in churches. Candles can also be constructed using natural plant waxes, such as Carnauba wax or Candelilla wax. Ozokerite paraffin is mostly employed in the manufacture of candles used in hot climates because of its relatively high melting point.

Uses

Historically, candles were used for lighting but today are mainly utilised for decoration and ambiance, romantic mood lighting and ceremonial or religious occasions. Demand has also grown for scented candles as an air freshener and mood enhancer following the use of essential oils in aromatherapy.

A.F. Suter is a leading UK supplier, retailer, wholesaler, distributor, importer and exporter of high quality Shellac, Waxes, Natural Gums, Resins, Menthol Crystals and Zein.

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