Unrefined Paraffin (Slack Wax) – Technical & Commercial Overview

1. Executive Summary Berkeley Trade provides reliable, high-volume supply of Unrefined Paraffin, commonly recognized in the industry as Slack Wax. As a vital derivative of the base oil refining process, our slack wax serves as an incredibly versatile, cost-effective raw material for a wide spectrum of industrial applications. Sourced from premier global refineries, we distribute this product in compliance with SIC 46750, ensuring UK manufacturers have access to consistent, high-grade hydrophobic materials.
2. Chemical and Physical Profile Unrefined paraffin is a complex mixture of solid, straight-chain (normal) and branched alkanes (hydrocarbons), typically ranging from C20 to C40. Because it is unrefined, it retains a significant proportion of base oil, which dictates its physical properties.

• Oil Content: 5% to 30% (Depending on grade—Light or Heavy Slack Wax)
• Melting Point: 48°C to 66°C (118°F to 150°F)
• Appearance: Varies from light yellow to brown, solid to semi-solid at room temperature.
• Flash Point: > 200°C
• Properties: Highly hydrophobic (water-repellent), excellent electrical resistance, highly combustible when vaporized or wicked, and chemically inert under standard conditions.

3. Primary Industrial Applications & Markets The high oil content in slack wax makes it unsuitable for cosmetics or food packaging, but highly desirable and economically advantageous for heavy industrial applications.

• Engineered Wood and Construction Boards (MDF/OSB): The largest consumer of unrefined paraffin is the engineered wood sector. Slack wax is emulsified and blended with resins during the production of Medium-Density Fiberboard (MDF), Particleboard, and Oriented Strand Board (OSB). The wax coats the wood fibers, acting as an internal sizing agent that dramatically reduces water absorption and edge swelling, ensuring the structural integrity of the boards in humid environments.
• Rust Prevention and Metal Protection: Due to its hydrophobic nature and heavy oil content, slack wax is an exceptional base for formulating rust-preventative coatings. When applied to metal parts, wire ropes, and heavy machinery, it forms a thick, temporary, weather-resistant barrier that halts oxidation and corrosion during long-term storage or trans-oceanic shipping.
• Rubber Manufacturing and Tire Protection: In the rubber industry, slack wax acts as a critical processing aid and anti-ozonant. During the vulcanization process, the wax is blended into the rubber matrix. Over time, it slowly “blooms” or migrates to the surface of the tire or rubber belt, forming a continuous protective film that shields the rubber from atmospheric ozone, preventing dry rot and surface cracking.
• Matches and Pyrotechnics: Unrefined paraffin is heavily utilized in the matchstick industry. The wooden or paper splints are heavily impregnated with slack wax before the combustible head is applied. The wax acts as the primary fuel source, vaporizing instantly to transfer the flame from the chemical head to the wood.
• Concrete Curing Agents: Applied as an emulsion to freshly poured concrete, it forms a moisture-retaining membrane that prevents water from evaporating too quickly, allowing the concrete to cure with maximum tensile strength.

4. Quality Assurance and Technical Specifications (TDS) We offer both Light and Heavy grades of Slack Wax to suit specific manufacturing viscosities and melting point requirements.

• Kinematic Viscosity (at 100°C): 3.0 – 8.0 cSt
• Oil Content (ASTM D721): 10% – 25% (Custom limits available)
• Penetration (at 25°C): 30 – 100 (0.1mm)

5. Handling, Storage, and Safety Unrefined paraffin is a highly stable, non-toxic, and non-corrosive product, making it safe for general industrial handling.

• Storage Protocols: Must be stored in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area, strictly away from direct sunlight, open flames, and strong oxidizing agents. Because it is thermoplastic, storing it in areas exceeding its melting point will cause the product to fuse into a single, unmanageable block.
• Fire Hazard: While safe at room temperature, liquid (molten) wax can be a severe fire hazard. If ignited, it should be extinguished using dry chemical, CO2, or foam—never water, which will cause a violent boil-over.

6. Logistics and Bulk Distribution Berkeley Trade adapts to your supply chain infrastructure. We supply Unrefined Paraffin in multiple formats:

• Solid Form: Packaged in heavy-duty 25kg cartons, 50kg bags, or large FIBC jumbo bags (flakes or slabs).

Liquid Form: For high-volume continuous consumers, we deliver molten slack wax via specially designed, insulated, and steam-coiled heated liquid road tankers directly to your facility’s heated storage tanks.