Wax emulsion is a wax-water liquid mixture. It is used to create a waterproof surface on paper and cloth. The emulsion’s wax can be any type of wax, but it is typically composed of natural or synthetic waxes. Wax emulsions can be stabilised using non-ionic emulsifiers (steric mechanism) or ionic emulsifiers, most commonly anionic (electrostatic mechanism). When anionic and nonionic emulsifiers are combined, the emulsion has the best stability because wax particles are protected by both stabilisation processes.
Each stabilisation mechanism has a significant impact on the overall formulation, adding flexibility to the formulation process while also having its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Apply the emulsion by dipping the paper or cloth into the liquid or brushing it on with a paintbrush. The water in the mixture seals the paper or cloth and protects it from moisture. In this article, we will look at how wax emulsion Malaysia is used.
The Critical Temperature
When curing is required, the wax must have a melting point that is lower than the curing temperature. As a result, the wax can melt, transfer to the coating surfaces, recrystallize when the coating cools, and form a continuous and consistent film.
The Coating’s Thickness Layer
To maximise the wax effects, the dried film surface should have the highest dried wax density. As a result, the particle size of the wax emulsion should be as close to the coating layer thickness as possible. Smaller wax emulsions can perform just as well when the concentration is properly adjusted.
The pH of the Wax Emulsion
The pH of the wax emulsion should be within one unit of the pH of the system to which it is added. If necessary, aqueous ammonia or acetic acid can be used to adjust the pH of the emulsion.
The Surfactant Classification
The type of surfactant used can also impact formulation stability and compatibility with other components. By matching the emulsion charge to the coating charge, stability is increased.
The Order of Component Addition
The order in which ingredients are added can be critical in ensuring the stability of water-based formulations. To reduce agglomeration and increase overall stability, add the wax emulsion last. To reduce shock, the emulsion can be further diluted with soft or demineralized water prior to incorporation.
Waxes’ Regulatory Aspects
If the emulsion is to be used in a coating or package that will come into contact with food, the wax and any other additives (such as emulsifiers, antifoams, biocides, and so on) must comply with all applicable laws and regulations (FDA, BfR, European Directives, Kosher Certification etc.).
The Use of Wax Emulsion Malaysia
Printing inks, leather, paper, and polishes are just a few of the many applications for wax emulsions. They improve products by adding scratch resistance, corrosion resistance, different finishes, and other features.
Natural wax emulsions can be used to coat fruits, vegetables, and candies. Meanwhile, products such as creams and ointments often have emulsions of beeswax, paraffin, and carnauba wax as part of the ingredients.
