Wax

Over the centuries, candle waxes have been developed from a variety of fats, oils and waxy-like substances derived from animals, insects, plants and rocks.

Scientists consider “wax” to be a generic term for classifying materials that have the following characteristics:

• Solid at room temperature; liquid at higher temperatures
• Primarily hydrocarbon in structure
• Water repellent; insoluble in water
• Smooth texture; buffable under slight pressure
• Low toxicity; low reactivity
• Low odor

Candle Wax Facts

• Prior to the 19th century, a “wax” candle typically referred to a beeswax candle.
• All waxes are primarily hydrocarbons, whether the wax is of animal, vegetable, or petroleum origin. The chemical composition of all waxes used for candle-making is similar, and all candle waxes burn in the same manner.
• An estimated 1 billion pounds of wax are used in the candles sold each year in the United States.
• Candles account for the second largest use of waxes in North America, after packaging and package coatings.
• Paraffin is the most commonly used candle wax today. Beeswax, soy wax, palm wax, gels, and synthesized waxes are also used in candle-making for the U.S. market, as are blends of waxes.
• Waxes burn with a yellow flame due to the presence of carbon.
• No specific type of wax or wax blend is considered “best” for candlemaking. All candle waxes – when provided in high-quality format – have been shown to burn cleanly, safely and in the same manner.
• No candle wax has ever been shown to be toxic or harmful to human health.
• There is no such thing as a soot-free wax. All organic compounds when burned will emit some carbon (soot) due to incomplete combustion. Sooting is primarily a factor of wick length and flame disturbance.
• Reputable candle manufacturers use only high-quality waxes in their formulations.