A.F. Suter and Co. Ltd
Shellac, Waxes, Gums and Resins
- +44 (0) 1376 514953
- afsuter@afsuter.com
- Compass House, Eastways Industrial Estate, Witham, Essex, CM8 3YQ, United Kingdom
A.F. Suter and Co. Ltd
Shellac, Waxes, Gums and Resins
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Ozokerite is a mineral wax or paraffin found deposited in rock fractures in many localities, including the Carpathian Mountains, although the main source of commercial supply is Galicia in northern Spain.
Ozokerite varies in colour from light yellow to dark brown. It is purified by boiling in water, reaching its melting point at between 58–100° C, but typically around 62 °C. The wax that rises to the surface is refined using sulfuric acid and then decolourised with charcoal. Ozokerite is soluble in benzene, carbon disulphide, chloroform, ether, petroleum and turpentine. When distilled in superheated steam, Ozokerite yields a substance similar to Paraffin derived from petroleum, but has a higher melting point. Distillation also produces Ceresine wax, which resembles Petroleum Jelly.
Ozokerite paraffin is used in the manufacture of candles, particularly those used in hot climates because of its relatively high melting point.
Ozokerite is used in shoe and leather polish.
Ozokerite is used in the manufacture of carbon paper.
The hard, black, waxy residue of the distillation process is used as heel-ball to polish the heels and soles of boots. The electrical industry combines the residue with India-rubber for use as an insulator known as Okonite.
In the Personal Care industry, Ceresine wax is used as a skin ointment and an emollient in personal care products such as extra-soft paper tissues.
Registered Office:
146 New London Road, Chelmsford,
Essex.CM2 0AW
Company Reg No. 04296187
VAT No. GB 783 0308 36