Nomenclature
Paraffin wax; hard paraffin. Description and references
A mixture of solid hydrocarbons having the
general formula CnH2n+2, obtained from petroleum.
Properties
Colorless or white, somewhat translucent, odorless
mass; greasy feel; burns with a luminous flame. d
about 0.90. mp 50-57°; also available with higher and lower
melting ranges. Insol in water or alcohol. Sol in benzene, chloroform,
ether, carbon disulfide, oils; miscible when melted with wax, spermaceti,
fats.Caution
Potential symptoms of overexposure
to fumes are irritation of eyes, skin, respiratory system; discomfort
and nausea. See NIOSH Pocket Guide
to Chemical Hazards (DHHS/NIOSH 97-140, 1997) p 240.Use
For raising mp of ointments. Manuf paraffin paper
and candles (so-called wax paper or candles); for fixing drawings,
etc., on muslin; water-proofing wood, cork, paper, leather; manuf
varnishes; to render wooden vessels impermeable to water or alcohol;
in lubricants; to cover food products; in floor polishes, cosmetics,
electrical insulators; for extracting perfumes from flowers. Pharmaceutic
aid (stiffening agent).